Confession: Even when dieting, I frequently and often eat a doughnut for breakfast. A lot of the time, I even combine it with a diet soda (gross combination to some it may be).
I know that this is the antithesis of dieting. I know that, frequently, the very first task on a dieter's checklist is kicking the doughnut runs. They are high in calorie, chock full of sugar, and (if you get them from a lot of big commercial joints) probably have a long list of chemical ingredients as well. They are the definition of Not Good For You.
However. I spent many years of my life skipping all indulgences. Depriving myself of everything that I liked to eat. Missing time with friends and family because I'd rather eat my lean pocket alone, and wake up a tiny bit skinnier.
The only thing that gave me was a couple of years of an eating disorder and a massive weight gain.
This time, I'm dieting the way I see fit. I do tons of exercise, at least five times a week, and eat largely healthily for most meals and snacks. The vast majority of my time, I feel good about what I am putting in my body.
I do this so I don't need to worry about a 280-300 calorie (Not actually a ton more than a bowl of cereal, or an egg, especially if you have a mid-morning snack too, which I generally do not) indulgence. Especially when it is one I often enjoy with a loved one. I don't worry about the fact I drink diet soda, or that I like an after dinner dessert (though now I've switched to banana babies--sneaking in that fruit!) or sometimes I go out to dinner, or eat fast food. Now, I live my life in a way I can maintain, and keep everything in moderation.
This is what has helped me, and will help me be successful. I am 22. If I'm lucky, I have another 60+ years of life to live. I'm going to get there by taking care of my body, but I'm going to live my life too. I'm not going to stay in every time because I'm afraid of the calorie count of drinks with friends. I'm not going to miss precious time with my family by saying no to a doughnut run. Instead, I'll adjust. Make sure I compensate for those indulgences in other areas. Do an extra workout, eat another serving of vegetables with dinner.
I am creating a life that is healthy, but enjoyable for me too. Happiness is worth it.