When you're trying to lose weight, you've got a lot of battles on your hands. Temptation seems to be at every turn -- in your pantry, your fridge, at the office, and the fast food joint around the corner. One place you're probably not expecting a challenge is amongst your friends.
We expect our pals to be sources of empathy and encouragement, but instead, it is not uncommon to find out that not everyone in your life will support your weight loss efforts. In fact, some people may try to make you fail.
Why Do Friends Falter?
Sometimes it all comes down to one ugly four letter word: Fear. Does your best pal feel the new, svelte you will move on to things he doesn't enjoy? Perhaps a fellow singleton fears your social life may improve and you'll ditch her for hot dates. Maybe your healthier ways are making a friend feel guilty about her own less-than-perfect eating habits. Or worse, maybe you make her feel better about her own weight issues when you have one, too.
So many of our social activities revolve around food (Dinner at 8? Great! Movies without popcorn ... no way!), when you start changing the way you eat, the way you relate to your friends (with food) changes, too.
To get the "old you" back, some pals may start trying to push food on you or suggest you remain a couch potato alongside them. A key in preventing or solving this situation is communication -- make it clear from the get-go that you're serious about losing weight and that you need your friends' help to make it happen.
Asking for Help
Here are some ideas for what to say:
- I need to lose weight for my health. I can't do it alone and I trust you to help me.
- Please don't eat tempting foods around me or encourage me to eat them.
- Please don't suggest activities that center around eating.
- Help me avoid my danger zones (e.g. buffets).
- Take an interest. Ask me how I'm doing now and again.
- Join me in exercise or simply being more active.
- Don't offer me food from your plate or to split fattening meals with me.
If your activities normally center around a restaurant or bar, suggest new ones: museums, concerts, plays, etc. Better still, get active by going dancing or playing tennis.
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