The definition of lapse is a temporary decline from the expected outcome. Say for example you are trying to stop overeating and if you have an episode of overeating that is considered a lapse.
It doesn't matter which habit or behavior you are trying to change...arguing with a spouse, quitting smoking, improving body image, recovering from an eating disorder, starting an exercise plan, etc....LAPSES are part of the change process.
I like to introduce the concept of lapses to clients early on in our work, because it sets the expectation that behavior change is a PROCESS and that road bumps are NORMAL when we are trying to make changes in our lives.
The next time you try to change a behavior expect lapses, because they will happen. If you expect them you won't feel so defeated, they will be easier to navigate and most likely you will be more successful at changing the behavior.
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