Finding weight loss support could mean the difference between failure and success. Studies have indicated that having the support of family members and friends when adapting a healthier lifestyle significantly contribute to long-term success.
The support you receive can be:
• Practical: A person who babysits so you can exercise.
• Emotional: An encouraging voice when you are feeling discouraged.
• Inspirational: A workout exercise partner who inspires you to get moving on the days when you just don’t feel like working out.
It is important to let your family and friends know how much you need their help and the ways in which they can help you. For example, you could ask your sibling to workout with you and your significant other to join your healthy-eating movement.
You should also anticipate some unsupportive behaviors from your loved ones. It is not unusual for a significant other or even a friend to feel threatened by the prospect of your weight loss. A parent might be offended if you no longer want to eat meals you used to indulge in. Furthermore, there are friends who want you to skip an exercise session to go have a burger. You may need to let your loved ones know that while you are making a lifestyle change, your feelings for them have not changed. You can advise them on ways they can share this journey with you.
Consider participating in or creating a weight-loss group. You may find it beneficial to become a part of an established support group headed by a certified health coach, a dietician or other such professionals. Alternatively, you can ask loved ones or colleagues to become a part of your weight-loss program to form your own support group.
Below are some ideas that can be used to build and maintain your support team:
• Recognize how important it is to give and take
• Regularly express your appreciation for your support team
• Stay in touch on a regular basis. A lot of people tend to isolate themselves when they ‘fall off the wagon.’ However support could be critical in getting back on track. Therefore, even when you’re feeling guilty, you should answer those emails, phone calls and text messages.
• Form a partnership. Find someone with whom you can work out and share the responsibility of cooking healthy meals.
• Join in. Participate in active family get-togethers or local exercise classes.
It can be quite challenging to start and maintain the process of making lifestyle changes. Your weight loss support can provide you with the encouragement you need to stay the course.
