Do you have scalophobia? By Janice Taylor, Life & Wellness Coach, author and 50 pound big-time-loser.
My friend, Maggie told me that one of two things happen when she gets on the scale. If she’s lost weight, she says, “Yeah!” and eats. If she gains weight, she says, “Why bother.” And eats. Clearly, Maggie should not weigh herself daily; perhaps not even weekly!
What does the scale measure?

Do you know what the scales really measure – scientifically that is? Every object in the universe with mass attracts every other object with mass. (Some more massive than others!) Therefore, there is a pull – a force – an attraction (even better) between you and the Earth.
Your bathroom scale measures that force of attraction and that force is called your weight! If you look at it in those terms, it takes the emphasis off fat and puts it on gravitational pull. Nowhere in scientific date – that I could find – does it state that the scale measures hideous fat. It is only a number, and I realized that I didn’t have to be in a twist over the attraction between the Earth and me. After all, I am happy to be considered attractive.
Let’s promise here and now that we’re not going to get fixated on the numbers. The turtle wins this race and numbers fluctuate with the wind. Seriously, even the weather can make you retain water!
Nevertheless, statistics show that people who weigh themselves regularly not only lose weight faster, but keep it off longer.
How often should we weigh-in and what is the best way to weigh-in?
If you are like me – the kind of person who allows the number on the scale to dictate the mood of the day, then only weigh yourself once a week and on a day when no one is depending upon you in any big way. In other words, weigh-in day is not the day to dispense life advice or operate heavy equipment.
And remember, only weigh yourself first thing in the morning, after you ‘relieve’ yourself, before coffee, and NAKED, of course. Every ounce counts.
And for goodness sake, find the right spot. Tiled floors offer varied readings, depending on the dip of the tile. Take advantage of that dip – find the lowest point, and leave your scale there!
Tasty Tidbit:
If you are weighing-in at one of those group meetings and have had a ‘bad’ week, consider putting together a light weigh-in outfit, including the lightest underwear possible! Here follows a chart courtesy of HerRoom Lingerie.
Average weights of underwear styles:
Underwear Style / Weight
Water bra / 1.00 lb.
Padded underwire bra / .40 lb.

Underwire bra / .35 lb.
Softcup bra / .30 lb.
Full panty / .20 lb.
Bikini panty / .10 lb.
Thong / .05 lb.

Spread the word, NOT the icing!
Janice
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