Book excerpt: Why is it that professional women can be so totally competent when it comes to taking care of business and so totally inept when it comes to taking care of themselves? Working women tend to put the needs of everyone around them, from their families and friends to their bosses and coworkers, ahead of their own health and well-being-placing themselves at risk by putting themselves last. Susan Estrich exposes these dangerous ways of thinking and other life-threatening habits as she makes a clear, compelling case for recognizing your body as your primary resource.Estrich brings her experience as both a lifelong dieter and a professor of law to the table, teaching you to think like a lawyer when it comes to defending your diet. She has anticipated every objection-from "I just don't have the time" to "I ate the donut because it was there"-and has the appropriate rebuttals at the ready. Estrich helps you to construct an argument that will keep you focused and committed until the results are their own reward. Beginning with a three-week commitment (you will actually be asked to sign a contract), she shows you how to play by your own rules, how to make a diet work for you, and how to identify your weaknesses and overcome them-just as you do in the rest of your life. Most of all, Estrich makes the case for investing wisely in yourself.Frank, funny, savvy, and empowering, Making the Case for Yourself is a diet book that engages your mind in the fight for your body.