Why do we keep dieting? 

Shape Jan 2001

"Psychologists have pointed out that the persistence of dieting defies the most basic of all behavioral principles: the rule that actions that do not bring a positive result are eventually abandoned.  It's the old positive/negative -reinforcement thing: How many times does a child burn her hand on the stovetop before she learns not to touch it?  How many times does a dieter have to fail before she learns that dieting (a period of severe calorie deprivation, followed by inevitable bingeing, then more deprivation) doesn't work?"

Six traits that promote healthy weight

1. Allowing "forbidden" foods
2. Doing it yourself, not for others in your life
3. Eating a low-fat diet
4. Addressing and dealing with any relapses or weight regain immediately
5. Exercising regularly
6. Regarding these changes as a lifelong strategy. (The most important trait).