Beyond Willpower: Why Self-Criticism Keeps You Stuck

Beyond Willpower: Why Self-Criticism Keeps You Stuck

Author: The Fasting Method January 22, 2026 Duration: 5:22

Many people believe they need more willpower to stay consistent with fasting or eating habits.

🎙️In this bonus episode, Dr. Terri Lance gently challenges that idea and explains why so-called "self-sabotaging" behaviors are often coping responses, not failures. When stress is high and the nervous system is overwhelmed, food can become a fast and familiar way to regulate — not a lack of discipline.

Real, sustainable change doesn't come from pushing harder or criticizing yourself. It comes from understanding what's happening underneath your behaviors and learning how to respond differently when things get difficult.

This episode is part of the Beyond Knowing series — exploring the gap between knowing what to do and being able to do it consistently.

✨ Learn more about Beyond Knowing, Dr. Terri Lance's 12-week support program, here:
https://www.thefastingmethod.com/beyond-knowing-creating-your-true-transformation/


For anyone navigating the world of intermittent fasting, sorting through the noise can be the hardest part. The Fasting Method Podcast cuts through that confusion with clarity and authority. Co-hosted by recognized experts Megan Ramos and Terri Lance, Ph.D., this podcast is built on a foundation of real science and practical application. The conversations here move beyond simplistic tips to explore the nuanced physiology of fasting, the psychological hurdles, and the sustainable strategies that lead to lasting health changes. You’ll hear detailed explorations of metabolic adaptation, hormone regulation, and the social complexities of changing one's eating patterns, all grounded in the hosts' extensive clinical and research experience. This is a space where listener questions drive the dialogue, making each episode a direct address to the real-world challenges people face. Tune in for a candid, evidence-based resource that treats fasting not as a trend, but as a deeply personal tool for wellness. The discussions on this podcast are designed to empower you with knowledge, demystify the process, and provide a supportive audio companion for your journey.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 258

The Fasting Method Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Hot Topic: Neuropathy With Special Guest Wende Eccles [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:21
Episode #36 In today's episode, while Megan is away on a mini-break, Nadia tackles the Hot Topic of Neuropathy with Wende, a special member who has become a huge part of the TFM Community and also featured in episode #29…
Expert Guest: Coach Lisa Chance [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:54
Episode #35 In today's episode, Megan and Nadia interview their colleague, Coach Lisa Chance, a retired RN. Megan and Nadia chat to Lisa about how she started fasting and all of her successes over the last 4 years. Liste…
Member Transformation: Melinda Reames [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:06
Episode #33 In today's episode, Megan and Nadia's Hot Topic is the amazing transformation of a very special guest, Melinda. Melinda is a member who has become a huge part of the TFM Community and is now part of the TFM t…
Expert Guest: John Clary [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:14
Episode #31 In today's episode, Megan and Nadia interview their colleague, Coach John. Listen in as Megan and Nadia chat about how they met John and his journey with: reversing type 2 diabetes losing 225 lbs weight and m…
Hot Topic: Type 2 Diabetes With Special Guest Wende Eccles [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 50:55
Episode #29 In today's episode, Megan and Nadia tackle the Hot Topic of Type 2 Diabetes with a very special guest, Wende, a member that has become a huge part of the TFM community. Listen to how Wende reversed her Type 2…
Expert Guest: Dr. Melissa Hague, OBGYN [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 48:27
Episode #28 In today's episode, Megan and Nadia interview Dr. Melissa Hague, OBGYN. Listen in as Megan and Nadia speak to the expert on Women's Health on the following controversial topics and myths: Is fasting "bad for…