One of the biggest obstacles to any weight loss plan is getting around the many subtle and not so subtle ways that family and friends use to sabotage your diet. While they may not even be aware that they are doing it, the tactics used by those closest to us have the potential to be the downfall of even our most well intentioned efforts to lose weight.
In some cases, family and friends feel insecure regarding your plans to lose weight and thus may begin practicing various tactics that are aimed at de-railing your diet plans. They may complain about the amount of time that you spend working out; deliberately schedule other activities that conflict with your scheduled exercise times; shower you with tempting and fattening foods and in the worst case scenarios make pointed observations that you don’t look as though you’ve lost weight or make predictions that you will just gain all the weight you’ve lost right back.
Usually; this type of tactic stems from the fact that the other person is suddenly afraid that your change in lifestyle may affect your relationship with them. This is especially true in relationships concerning husbands/wives and other romantic partners. There may be a very real concern present that you will begin to notice others when you become slim.
In other cases, the tactics employed from those closest to you may not result from insecurities but rather from lack of knowledge. They simply may not recognize that offering that one teensy slice of chocolate cake could set you back an entire week in your diet plans. Or perhaps they truly do not realize the health risks those extra pounds are presenting to you.
This type of behavior from those closest to us can be disheartening when we are already feeling vulnerable. Fortunately, there are several tactics you can use to withstand even the worst tactics friends and family may throw your way in order to sabotage your diet.
First, never accuse friends/family of the obvious tactics they are using. Instead, explain how much it means to you to lose weight and become healthier. Try to turn this into a way to spend more time together and bond by asking them to be your weight loss buddy. Not only will this provide the back-up support you need, but it will help to eliminate the feelings of insecurity they are experiencing as you begin to reveal your new, slimmer body.
When friends and family express judgmental feelings; the first thing you should do is realize that these statements are more about their own feelings of inadequacies. Try not to take it personally. Instead, focus on the fact that you are doing something healthy for yourself.
Be sure to let those closest to you know the guidelines for your diet. In some cases, what appears to be sabotage could simply be the result of not having enough information. If you find that certain areas are especially weak points for you; clue your family and friends in so that they can help you to meet your weight loss goals.
Don’t be afraid to toot your own horn. When you reach a milestone in your diet, let everyone know about and see how happy you are in your own success. Chances are that when family/friends see your enthusiasm and happiness, they will be much more likely to provide the support you need.
Finally, while it’s great to try to introduce your family and friends to a healthier way of living and eating; do realize that no one wants to be lectured to. Toward that end, work together on family meal plans and get-togethers so that everyone is satisfied with the choices offered.