Q&A With Jonathan Ressler About Shut Up And Choose

Q&A with Jonathan Ressler

We are thrilled to present an in-depth Q&A session with Jonathan Ressler, the author of the transformative book “Shut Up and Choose.” Jonathan’s journey from struggling with weight to achieving a healthier lifestyle is both inspiring and relatable. His book advocates for taking responsibility for your choices and adopting mindful eating habits. In this candid interview, Jonathan shares the turning points in his weight loss journey, debunks common misconceptions about the weight loss industry, and offers practical advice for those starting their own path to better health. Dive in to discover how you can take control of your life with the empowering principles of “Shut Up and Choose.”

1. Q: What inspired you to write “Shut Up and Choose”?

**A: My inspiration stemmed from my own struggle with weight and the realization that my choices were at the core of the problem. Despite trying numerous diets, various weight loss programs, and even contemplating surgery, nothing provided lasting results. It became clear that the change had to come from within. It wasn’t about finding the perfect diet or a miracle solution; it was about taking responsibility for my actions and making mindful, deliberate choices – what I call small, smart choices. I wanted to share my journey and insights to help others understand that they too have the power to change their lives through their decisions. This book is a no-nonsense guide to cutting through excuses and taking control of your health.

2. Q: Can you explain the main concept of “Shut Up and Choose” in a few sentences?

**A: The core concept is straightforward: take responsibility for your choices and stop making excuses. If you’re overweight, it’s because of the choices you’ve made, whether you realize it or not. The good news is that just as you chose to gain weight, you can choose to lose it. It’s about making small, smart choices every day that align with your health goals. Recognizing that you are in control empowers you to make changes that lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life. It’s all about being mindful and intentional with your actions.

3. Q: What was the turning point in your weight loss journey?

**A: The turning point came when I saw a photo of myself with a pink gorilla sent by a friend for my birthday. I had been avoiding mirrors and photos for so long that my mental image didn’t match reality. That photo was a wake-up call, starkly showing how much weight I had gained and how my health had deteriorated. It was painful to confront the truth, but it also gave me the motivation I needed to take responsibility and start making better choices to improve my health.

4. Q: You emphasize the role of personal accountability in weight loss. Why is this so important?

**A: Personal accountability is crucial because it puts you in control of your destiny. When you acknowledge that your current state is the result of your choices, you empower yourself to make different, better choices. It’s easy to blame genetics, metabolism, or external circumstances, but these are just excuses that keep you stuck. Taking personal accountability means accepting that you have the power to change your life. It’s about owning your actions and understanding that you are responsible for your health and well-being. This mindset shift is empowering because it means you have the ability to create the life you want through your decisions.

5. Q: How does mindful eating play into your approach to weight loss?

**A: Mindful eating is about being fully present and aware during meals. It involves paying attention to the sensory experience of eating – the taste, texture, smell, and appearance of your food – as well as your body’s hunger and fullness cues. By slowing down and savoring each bite, you not only enjoy your food more but also give your body time to signal when it’s satisfied. This can prevent overeating and help you make healthier food choices. Mindful eating helps you develop a better relationship with food by recognizing emotional triggers and eating out of genuine hunger rather than for comfort or distraction. It’s a key component of sustainable weight loss because it fosters a conscious, intentional approach to eating.

6. Q: What do you think is the biggest misconception about weight loss?

**A: The biggest misconception is that you need expensive diets, pills, or surgery to lose weight. The weight loss industry is built on the idea of quick fixes and miracle solutions, but these are often unsustainable and can even be harmful. True, lasting weight loss comes from understanding and changing your habits. It’s about making small, smart choices that align with your health goals. There are no shortcuts – it requires effort, commitment, and a willingness to take responsibility for your actions. The good news is that when you focus on making small, smart choices, the results are more sustainable and rewarding in the long run.

7. Q: In your book, you talk about the weight loss industry being a scam. Can you elaborate on that?

**A: The weight loss industry thrives on false promises and quick fixes. Many products and diets are designed to make you dependent on them, ensuring repeat business. They sell you the idea that you need their specific program or product to succeed, but in reality, they often offer temporary solutions that don’t address the root cause of weight gain. These companies capitalize on our desire for a quick fix and our frustration with previous failures. True, lasting weight loss comes from understanding your body, recognizing your triggers, and making sustainable changes. It’s about empowering yourself to take control, rather than relying on external solutions that often lead to yo-yo dieting and disappointment.

8. Q: How do you handle setbacks or moments when you slip back into old habits?

**A: I don’t believe in setbacks when you eat my way. As long as you own your choice, it is just that – another choice. Your smart choice meter does not go back to zero if you make a not-so-smart choice; just make the next one a better one. When I make a less optimal choice, I acknowledge it, understand what triggered it, and get back on track with mindful decisions. It’s about learning from these experiences and using them as opportunities for growth. I remind myself that progress is not linear and that each day is a new chance to make better choices. The key is to stay committed and not let a single choice derail your overall progress.

9. Q: What advice would you give to someone who is just starting their weight loss journey?

**A: Start small and focus on making one better choice at a time. Don’t overwhelm yourself with drastic changes. Identify one habit you can improve and work on that. Celebrate small victories and recognize that progress takes time. Be patient and kind to yourself. Understand that setbacks will happen, but they don’t define your journey. Stay committed to your goals and keep moving forward. Surround yourself with supportive people who understand your goals and can encourage you along the way. Consistency and mindfulness are key – it’s about making sustainable changes that you can maintain for life.

10. Q: How has writing “Shut Up and Choose” impacted your life?

**A: Writing this book has been incredibly rewarding. It has allowed me to reflect on my journey, solidify my commitment to mindful eating, and connect with others who are facing similar challenges. Sharing my story has given me a sense of purpose and fulfillment, knowing that I can help others take control of their lives. It’s been humbling to hear from readers who have been inspired by my story and have started making positive changes in their own lives. The process of writing the book has also reinforced my own practices and kept me accountable. It’s a constant reminder that we all have the power to change our lives through our choices.