One Week at a Time

As I begin Week 39 of this journey, I realized that it doesn’t really matter how many weeks I’ve been doing Program. What matters is the consistency—showing up week after week, learning, growing, and continuing to move forward. This week brought a meaningful win: I lost two more pounds.

With Passover and Easter coming to an end, the week was filled with traditions, gatherings, and plenty of opportunities to stray from my routine. Holidays have a way of shifting our schedules and putting tempting foods front and center, but they also offer a chance to put the behavior modification techniques I’ve been learning into practice.

Rather than focusing on what I couldn’t have, I chose to embrace the spirit of Passover by sticking to unleavened foods while continuing to follow Program as closely as possible. It wasn’t always exciting—let’s just say my menu became a bit repetitive—but the experience reinforced an important lesson: consistency often matters more than variety. And yes, I’m determined to finish the open box of matzah, mostly because I’m fairly certain it won’t be nearly as appetizing a year from now!

This week served as a powerful reminder of several key strategies that have supported my progress throughout this journey:

1. Returning to the Basics

When life gets busy or routines shift, the simplest tools are often the most effective. Writing everything down in my Blue Book, planning meals ahead of time, and staying mindful of portion sizes helped me remain grounded, even during holiday celebrations.

2. HALT – Checking In With Myself

The HALT principle—asking whether I’m Hungry, Angry/Anxious, Lonely, or Tired—continues to be an invaluable guide. During emotionally and socially busy weeks, it’s easy to mistake these feelings for hunger. Taking a moment to pause and reflect helped me make more intentional choices.

3. WAIT – What Am I Thinking?

Another helpful reminder was the WAIT technique. Before reaching for something off-plan, simply asking myself this question created space to make decisions aligned with my goals rather than acting on impulse or tradition.

4. Focusing on Abundance, Not Restriction

Instead of dwelling on foods that didn’t fit within Program, I shifted my attention to the many options that did—lean proteins, vegetables, and other satisfying choices. This mindset made the week feel less about deprivation and more about empowerment.

5. Progress Over Perfection

Holidays are rarely perfect, and that’s okay. The goal isn’t flawless execution but rather maintaining awareness and returning to healthy habits when needed. Staying consistent, even with a simplified routine, was enough to keep me moving forward.

While I may be ready to welcome more variety back into my meals once Passover concludes, I’m proud of the intention and discipline this week represented. The two-pound loss is a wonderful affirmation that these behavior modification techniques truly work, even during times when routines are disrupted.

More importantly, this week reinforced that Program isn’t just about weight loss—it’s about building sustainable habits that carry us through every season of life, including the holidays.

As I continue into Week 39, I’m reminded that success is not defined by a single week or a specific number on the scale. It’s shaped by the small, consistent choices we make each day. By leaning on the tools that have guided me so far, I feel confident in my ability to navigate whatever celebrations—and challenges—come next.

Here’s to honoring traditions, trusting the process, and continuing to move forward—one thoughtful choice at a time.

This week’s loss: 2 pounds

Total loss so far: 55 pounds

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