Overcoming Demons: My Experience Eating Out at The Keg

Was eating out for one of the first times recovering from an eating disorder perfect? No, it wasn’t, but isn’t that to be somewhat expected? That doesn’t mean however, that I shouldn’t be proud of myself or give up on my journey to health and recovery. So what, I didn't manage to eat or order a baked potato like my coach requested? So what that I questioned whether any oil or butter was added to my steamed asparagus and made my mother and brother try the asparagus to reassure me of it? What I did manage was to join my family for my mother’s birthday dinner, something I haven’t done in as many years as I can remember. I managed to eat an entire (and completely delicious) 6oz steak despite the fact that my mind was racing with negativity and self-doubt. This experience and account wasn’t one of a failure, quite the opposite, an account of a successful small step in the right direction towards a strong and healthy mind and body.

If I could give a few suggestion to anyone experiencing similar demons it would be to try, trust, acknowledge, and try again. Try, take the challenge head on. What have you got to lose? Trust, and if you need reassurance from your accompaniments or server, go for it! Your waiter/waitress is being paid to make sure you get what you want and will not judge you. Honestly your waiter/waitress couldn’t care less about you or what you decide to order, not to mention you will most likely never see the person again! Next, acknowledge your success, acknowledge any negative self-talk and reflect upon your experience, similar to this post right here. That way you can look back and be proud of how far you have come! Lastly, try again. If your first attempt at eating out didn’t go as perfectly as planned, don’t give up, instead be proud of your efforts and try, try again.

The point of this post is to encourage and relate. Even if you aren’t suffering from an eating disorder or anorexia, haven’t we all faced similar demons and negative self- talk? Truth be told, it’s actually okay and even normal. Don’t ignore it, tackle it head on with strength and beat the little beast we all have in our minds.

LGW xoxo