One of the biggest struggles many people have when it comes to weight loss is getting other people to understand your weight loss needs and, even if they don’t directly encourage them, refrain from doing things that would get in the way of your weight loss. Getting the support that you need can be a real challenge, even from your closest friends and family members. Still, if you’re going to succeed over the long haul, you’re going to need every little bit of help you can get, and that includes getting support from friends and family.
It’s not always easy to do, however. Just because you’re excited about weight loss doesn’t mean that the people around you are excited. In fact, they might be downright hostile. For example, your husband might be worried that you’ll want to stop visiting his favorite buffet. Your best friend might be worried that you’re going to lose so much weight that she’ll feel insecure about her own weight when she’s around you.
It’s all about communication
You need to start by being totally open and honest with your partner and with your friends. Tell them how important these new goals are for you. Talk about how you want to be more healthy and be around longer to enjoy their company, and that weight loss is an important part of that process. You might ask if they want to join you in your weight loss journey. Ask your partner and your friends to be happy for you and excited for you, and ask them to encourage you when it gets rough.
Leading by example
Sometimes, friends and family will be almost hostile. You might just be on your own. When that happens, you need to be able to stick to your weight loss goals. Once your family and friends see the progress that you make, they will be inspired. That doesn’t mean they’re going to join you, but once they see how happy you have become when you reach your goals, they will at the very least probably be more supportive.
A little extra outside help
Sometimes, you still need support and encouragement. There are plenty of places to find just that. You might join a support group for weight loss. You might find an online community of other folks who are trying to lose weight. There are plenty of people out there who are able to give you the support you need, even if your friends and family aren’t able to do so at the moment.
