Embracing the Uncomfortable: 5 Things I Had To Do to Stop Binge Eating

December 15, 2021

binge eating help; Ryann Nicole

Hey There, I'm Ryann Nicole.

I’m a recovered binge eater who changed the story from something that happened to me to something that happened for me. Now, I’m a licensed therapist teaching you to do the same.

My mission? To help you ditch food stress and live your life with mental peace and freedom every single day!

Have you ever reached a point where you were willing to do whatever it took to conquer binge eating, even if it meant stepping out of your comfort zone? I’ve been there, and I can assure you that this journey is not always pleasant.

5 Things I Had To Do to Stop Binge Eating

In my pursuit of a healthier relationship with food, I realized that change required some uncomfortable steps. Here are the five things I had to do to break free from binge eating, even when I didn’t particularly like them:

1. Detach from the Numbers:

The first step was letting go of my obsession with numbers. I had to stop weighing myself, quit counting calories, and ditch tracking workouts. As much as I tried to justify why I needed these numbers, I came to understand that they were holding me back from trusting my body. The truth was, I didn’t need to know these digits to lead a fulfilling life.

2. Structure My Eating:

I had to confront my emotional discomfort with eating more during the day. This meant responding to my body’s hunger cues, regardless of when they surfaced. I also learned to eat until I felt genuinely full and embrace real, satisfying meals instead of diet foods. It wasn’t easy, but it was a crucial step.

3. Speak Kindly to Myself:

Negative self-talk had to go. It’s impossible to find happiness with a mind filled with harsh judgments. I began to replace those destructive thoughts with words of encouragement and self-compassion.

4. Challenge Every Thought:

Breaking a seven-year-long pattern of disordered eating demanded an immense amount of effort. I realized that I needed to challenge my thoughts continuously and be willing to put in the work. Overcoming this hurdle meant reevaluating my thinking patterns, and it was worth every ounce of energy.

5. Ask for Help and Do the Work:

I had to accept that seeking professional help was a necessary step. It involved asking questions, opening up, journaling, reflecting, struggling, learning, and continually asking more questions. I wasn’t alone in this journey; there was a support system ready to help me, and I had to be willing to do the work.

These steps weren’t easy, and they often pushed me out of my comfort zone. However, as I progressed through this challenging journey, I started to feel better, and things began to change. I began to see the light, and eventually, I became the light. The point is, I don’t regret any of it. I’ve never met someone who has been through recovery and said, “I regret it.”

If you’re currently struggling, it’s time to ask yourself the hard truth: What will it take for you to realize that what you’re doing isn’t working? If you’re scared but still dissatisfied with your current situation, maybe it’s time to consider something new. Embrace the uncomfortable, and let’s embark on a journey towards a healthier, happier you.


The Best Guided Journals To Start A Journaling Practice 

Just so you know, I do review everything I recommend. When you buy through links on this page, we may earn a commission.

“The Five-Minute Journal”

A widely acclaimed guided journal designed for daily gratitude and self-reflection. This journal prompts users to express gratitude, set positive intentions, and reflect on daily achievements, fostering a positive mindset.

“Start Where You Are: A Journal for Self-Exploration” by Meera Lee Patel

This beautifully illustrated guided journal encourages self-exploration through a series of thought-provoking prompts, creative exercises, and inspirational quotes. It’s a visually engaging journey of self-discovery.

“365 Days of Wonder: Mr. Browne’s Precepts” by R.J. Palacio

Inspired by the best-selling novel “Wonder,” this guided journal offers daily precepts, quotes, and prompts to encourage kindness, empathy, and reflection. It’s a heartwarming and insightful companion for personal growth.

“The Mindfulness Journal”

Geared towards promoting mindfulness and reducing stress, this journal includes daily prompts for meditation, gratitude, and reflections on the present moment. It’s an ideal tool for those seeking a more centered and mindful lifestyle.

“Bullet Journal Method” by Ryder Carroll

While not a traditional guided journal, Ryder Carroll’s method has gained immense popularity. The Bullet Journal is a customizable organizational system that combines to-do lists, calendars, and reflections, offering a flexible and personalized approach to journaling. Click here for a bullet journal. 

“The Artist’s Way Morning Pages Journal” by Julia Cameron

Based on Julia Cameron’s transformative book, “The Artist’s Way,” this journal encourages the practice of “morning pages” – three pages of longhand, stream-of-consciousness writing every morning. It’s a tool for unlocking creativity and overcoming creative blocks.

“52 Lists Project” by Moorea Seal

This guided journal provides a year’s worth of weekly list prompts designed to inspire self-reflection, gratitude, and personal growth. Each list is thoughtfully curated to explore different aspects of your life and goals.

“Calm the Chaos Journal”

Targeted at those seeking stress relief and emotional balance, this guided journal combines mindfulness exercises, prompts for self-reflection, and spaces for creative expression. It’s a holistic approach to calming the chaos in daily life.

“Q&A a Day: 5-Year Journal”

Perfect for those who prefer a long-term commitment, this journal offers a daily question for five years, allowing users to track their thoughts and experiences over time. It’s a unique way to witness personal growth and changing perspectives.

My other favorite guided journals

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Ways I Can Support You

01 Coaching

Intimate group coaching to break free from binge eating

02 podcast

Real talk on food, mindset shifts, motherhood, and finding peace.

03 support group

A safe space to connect with others on the same journey.

04 free coaching

Have real conversations and hear others share their struggles.

Ryann Nicole

Licensed Therapist, Certified Nutritionist, and Virtual Wellness Coach

Ryann is a licensed therapist and virtual wellness coach who has assisted individuals worldwide in establishing a healthier relationship with food and their bodies.

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Ryann is a licensed therapist and virtual wellness coach who has assisted individuals worldwide in establishing a healthier relationship with food and their bodies.