Step #4 - Toyota's Eight Steps to Problem-Solving Applied to Weight Loss

Root Cause Analysis

In this step, we apply critical thinking to understand why we find ourselves in our current state.  Diet and exercise were factors I had previously addressed and modified in the past only to gain the weight back. One area I hadn’t considered before was the emotional aspect. 

Was it possible that the layers of fat that grew around my body were literally the result of decisions I chose to make or not to face decades ago. When I set the goal last year to get healthy, I knew I had to look at my whole self and had to consider everything.

My working theory at the time was that secrets and regrets build upon the body. Think of it like candle-making, first there is a cotton string that represents these things. In the beginning we have a choice, we can share that secret, face that regret and it will burn quickly out. It’s dealt with and it is over. I chose long ago to hold onto secrets for fear of hurting others and I had to constantly insulate myself from them. Every time a situation arose that could possibly expose the truth, I believed my body would literally add a new layer to hide it.

My point here is don’t be afraid of the hard stuff. Denial will keep you from realizing dreams and reaching goals. Take time to outline what you believe to be the root causes for your current state that you identified in step #2. Be specific when record your ideas. Creating real change is complex and your root causes will be diverse if done thoroughly.   

Here’s my abbreviated root cause list:

1.     Mobility – Neck and back pain

2.     Diet – Emotional eater, poor food choices, instant gratification

3.     Health – Lack of hormones, nutritional deficiencies, prescription medications

4.     Mental/emotional – Secrets, regrets

I know now that real weight loss did not happen until I finally revealed the secret I had carried for 38 years. At first, it felt much like the candle being lit. It hurt deeply at first, but dealing with the emotions melted away the anxiety of the constant fear of discovery.  My soul became lighter and my body responded.

Weigh loss and a healthy life will come when we can fully accept ourselves. Be honest and open to what may have hindered sustained results in the past. Success lies in exploration and discovery.

Next Step - Counter Measures

Kerri Smith is a marketing professional by trade but dedicates her life to learning and challenging the status quo. Smith is a wife, mother, grandmother, businesswoman, professional speaker, teacher, student, author, survivor and lover of life. Learn more at www.cuexceed.com.