Biggest thing for me has always been to be firm with my family and friends about my diet plans. Them being un-sensitive to my hard work is about as rational as them waving alcohol in front of an alcoholic. I needed support and expected it from those who love me.

But at the end of the day, there are daily examples when I am in a situation where there is little to no atkins-friendly food being served. And so, I pass on the food completely and just think of my steak waiting at home. If I break my diet during the first three stages, I am only training my body to expect treats and breaks. I like to think of the diet as a life change and nothing less so I am militant with myself. Once I am at the weight I want, of course I can have exceptions from time to time. But allowing them during the first three stages is not mentally nor physically healthy for me.