Helping Others Deal/Heal With Your Weight Loss

By John A. Mays, MSEd

Who actually believes that you can change when you set off on a journey of self-improvement?

As weird as this may sound, one of the more difficult aspects of making progress on your fitness goals can be dealing with those who observe your changes. Not everyone will be immediately supportive of your decision to change your life for the better. The best way to deal with this is through compassion and understanding.

You may need to help them see that you are on a personal journey to better your life. Initially we criticize them for criticizing us, it is much more productive to be patient with them. This breaks the pattern of egoic thinking and helps others learn from your inner and outer change. Patience is the key. The best way to remain patient with them is to stick to your own vision and remain strong on your journey.

As your habits change, your friends and family may feel as though you are pulling away from them, judging their habits as inferior, or positioning yourself as “better” than them. This of course is not true, but you must be diligent and positive. Here are my three best ways of doing so

Just Love Yourself Until you are happy with who and what you are, you can never be the best friend, family or lover to someone else in your life. This is when an “I Love Me” attitude is respected by all. Improving your health and fitness will strengthen your relationship with others.

Understand Their Feelings Stay strong and courageous in your own journey, lighting the path for others. Choose to be a role model. Glow with love and understanding as they adjust to believing that you are changing.

Own Your Journey Speak with confidence. “I get a 'high' from pushing myself.” “My new lifestyle makes me feel good.” Runners and athletes don't do it to get tight abs, but because it is their passion. The people in your life who truly care for you can always get behind the type of motivation that leads to personal improvement. If they cannot, its time to re-evaluate your relationship with them.

Standing on your own two feet with confidence leads to respect from all. As you grow, never rub the new you in the faces of others. Choose to be their selfless and loving inspiration. Take an educational and patient stance with them. And never forget where you started, make it part of your mission to inspire only positivity in those around you!