I still haven’t really got the second rule to work. In one way, it’s working fine: I’ve stopped eating as I prepare food, and I’ve not been stuck in an endless dessert loop for a while now.
At the same time, it’s hard to stick to. A good rule is one you know you have broken or stuck to. It’s unambiguous. No room for negotiating or being slightly bad.
When it comes to preparing the food, it’s sometimes hard to judge whether I have done so or not. What is sufficient preparation for three oaty biscuits? Or for a pre-packed lunch?
So I’m rephrasing rule 2, and splitting it up.
- Rule 2: No eating during food-preparation, or after the table is cleared.
- Rule 3: Eat all food & snacks from a plate, dish or bowl. Drinks from glasses or cups.
- Rule 4: Take a moment to express gratitude before and after eating.
These, together with rule 1 (When I eat, I eat) give me four layers of reminders to be mindful when I eat.
That may well be sufficient.
In fact, it may be a little over the top. Then again, if I miss out one of them, or I’m in a situation where something doesn’t apply or isn’t possible, I have backups.
I’ll let you know how it goes.
