How many times have we been told that if we eat well, exercise and manage our stress 80% of the time then things will be just fine? This has been a message that I have shared for years with my clients and if you stick to it then results can be fantastic. There are many different ways that I have sen my clients apply the 80/ 20 rule. Some save it all up for one day a week others have just one little "cheat" snack a day.

I don't think it matters how you do it but be warned when it comes to applying the 80/20 rule our brain can play some real tricks. Stopping at just one or 20% of anything can be difficult for any of us. Have you ever bought a block of chocolate and told yourself that you would portion it out over the week only to have found that it has all been eaten within two days (or even that night for many of us)? How many times have you opened the biscuits absolutely certain that you were only going to have one and then 30 minutes later found yourself guilt ridden and staring at an empty pack?

This is the problem with the 80/20 rule - stopping at 20. Environment plays such a strong influencing role on our eating habits. Research tells us that the closer the food is to us the more that we will eat it. So if you are going to give yourself a treat get out your portion for that day and then put the rest back in the cupboard (or as far away as you can - perhaps the shed!).

Working out exactly what is 20% is also helpful. Let me give you an example: if you were planning on 20% "cheat" meals each week then if you were eating 3 meals a day (21 a week) that would mean that you could have 4 "cheat" meals each week - notice that doesn't mean one per day. If you wanted to miss out 20% of your exercise - assuming you are exercising each day that allows only 3 missed session each two weeks (not every second day as I often see). For example if you were to miss 2 days in a row of exercise and that means you need to exercise every day for the next 10 just to get back to your 80/20

Most people are surprised when they see just how little 20% is,. For this reason my wife who is a personal trainer often tells her clients 90/10 knowing that they are likely to stretch things a little. So whilst there is great merit in the 80% rule if you are about to embark on a new habit can I suggest that you take some time and work out exactly what the 20% cheat is. Stick to these numbers and your body will not only cope over time it will flourish.

Dr Angus Pyke is the founder and director of What Actually Works - an online forum providing simple, proven and effective strategies for people to live a happier and healthier life. Angus is a sort after speaker and health coach to leaders of industry and Olympic gold medalists. His humor, compassion and simple message has helped to empower thousands to make change and live a more passionate, healthy and fulfilling life. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it www.whatactuallyworks.com.au www.facebook.com/whatactuallyworks