In all the "Secret" type stuff, you are told to focus on what you want, not what you don't want because what you focus on is what you grow and create more of. Makes sense.
Likewise, in writing or marketing it's stronger to use words that emphasize a gain over a lack like fat-free versus non-fat, or youthful glow versus anti-aging. The "gain" sounding words make you feel more abundant and that you're getting something of value versus trying to prevent something which can start raising fears and doubts.
So given that logic, let's look at the word "diet." To me what I always hear is "Die-It" or more to the point "Die-you" because that's how diets in general usually make me feel because what is involved are things that involve demise and pain like starvation, deprivation, restriction, limitation, guilt, and perfection. For example, whenever I've tried to go cold turkey on carbs or sugar, I always fail because a part of me literally feels like it's dying. Been there?
A more positive word that I like to use to replace the word diet (lack) is menu. "I'm on a menu. What's on the menu today? I do believe that is on the menu." May sound kinda dorky at first saying "menu", but it at least makes being on a food plan far more interesting and pleasurable than being on the "Die-you."
Menus are packed with a variety of foods, they are always changing yet some dishes can stay regular, they offer choices, and you can get creative and make your menu vibrant and fun. Being a foodie, I'm all about making food as pleasurable and healthy as possible.
So, how about you? Instead of the word "diet", what words do you use that make eating for health or shedding weight feel more enjoyable?