Transformation Tuesday

Let's talk about your support system.

Do you have the right support system in place to reach your goals? A best friend, a husband or wife, a mom or dad or boyfriend or girlfriend? Supportive friends, family members and significant others are critical to successful weight loss. It’s actually one of the biggest reasons why most people don’t stick to a weight loss or exercise plan. The people closest to them did not support them, sabotaged their efforts by not being understanding or scoffed and made fun of them for trying to eat healthier. Can you believe it? For trying to live healthier and eat better?

But someone who loves and cares for you should be understanding and supportive especially for things you care about (like your health!), so it can be very easy to fall into a trap of eating for the sake of your social life or even family life. This is why a solid support system is key to long-term weight loss. Without it, the journey can feel lonely, intimidating, and short term.

So what can you do to make sure you have the right support you need to lose weight and keep it off? Share your goals. You don’t have to share this with anybody and everybody in your life, but the people closest to you should know this is on your heart. I know it’s scary and vulnerable to talk about something you’re so self-conscious about. I know I was even to my husband. Because I had tried and failed so many times before. That asking for help again would disappoint him.

But remember, fear is a liar. It steals your happiness and confidence!

So don’t be afraid to let those closest to you know this is important to you and you want their love and support. If you are avoiding eating out as much, let them know you’d like to explore other options other than meeting at a restaurant to catch up or celebrate important events. Or if you have a family member not joining you on your weight loss efforts, make it clear that they don't have to change their eating habits if they don't want to, but that your health means a lot to you, and you'd appreciate it if they didn't mock or downplay your hard work. Let them know that if they are eating something you are trying to eat in moderation to serve smaller portions or be understanding when you don’t want to eat the same foods.

And last, don’t wait!!! Don’t wait for others to help you. Don’t wait for the right time because there will never be the right time. Don’t wait till things are less stressful. Life is stressful and navigating each day is going to be a struggle no matter when you start. I fell into the trap of believing my job was to wait. My support system would just happen. People would find me and reach out or my family would stop everything they were doing to help me overcome my own struggles. Or that there was perfect time to start. That kept me stuck for a long time. Sometimes it works that way, but more often than not, it is your job to build your own support system. It is your job to look out for yourself and put yourself first.

If you feel your support system is lacking or want an additional cheerleader in your corner on your journey let me know! I am here to help, you can send a message, or reach out on Instagram or Facebook. I know it can be difficult (I’ve been there), but don’t give up because you don’t feel you are supported. I am here to help with advice, just to listen, or talk through different options. You are not alone in your fears, don’t let your insecurities call the shots!

If I can do it, so can you.