Monday, September 25, 2000
'Feeling fat' can be catch-all for frustration
Is “fat” really a feeling?
When the zipper on your skirt refuses to close, saying “I feel fat” may be a legitimate comment. But if your boss has just assigned another project to your already overwhelming pile of “things to do,” this comment may be nothing more than a smokescreen to avoid your real feelings: fear, anger, or both.
In most instances, saying “I feel fat” can be a way of ignoring uncomfortable feelings. It's much easier to focus on the familiar — your weight — than on confronting your boss. Although, initially, focusing on weight may provide some relief from uncomfortable feelings, ultimately the uncomfortable feelings will resurface.
And if you are not good at identifying your feelings, you may say “I feel anxious or agitated” and then find yourself in front of the vending machine looking for “something.” Once you've eaten it, you may wonder why you did that, and then feel “fat” again. The cycle can repeat many more times.
To break the cycle, the next time you say “I feel fat,” take a minute and backtrack to see what happened just prior to your thought. What made you uncomfortable enough to make the statement, “I feel fat?”
Did your boss just assign you another project? If so, are you feeling overwhelmed, angry or uncomfortable? If the answer is yes, define the problem and come up with possible solutions. Is your boss aware of the number of projects you are currently working on?
Is there anyone else to assign these projects to? Can you meet with your boss to discuss your concerns about your workload or is it better to supervise each project yourself while delegating other responsibilities you have?
Once you have defined the problem or feeling that makes you uncomfortable, look for and act on solutions to relieve this discomfort. When you deal with the real issue you'll be at peace with yourself and your body.
Healthy Eating is provided by staff members at Jewish Hospital Weight Management Center (www.morethanadiet.com), Evendale.
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