SubscribeHow To: Build a Strong Support Network
Much of what we do in life, we do with the help and support of those around us, but do you 'go-it-alone' when trying to lose weight?
Lots of people do, but think about it, launching a new weight loss program can be a life-changing event. Generally speaking, we normally involve others in the major events of our life, and a physical transformation shouldn’t be any different.
Surrounding yourself with a good support team can mean the difference between success, and failure. So, who makes up your support network? Your team may include friends, family, work colleagues, various health care professionals, weight loss groups, your personal trainer; or it could even comprise contacts from an online health forum.
Assess Your Current Support Group
You may already have your own personal support group, and that’s great, but ask yourself, “Am I being pulled closer to my health goals by those around me?”
Sometimes when we begin to make lifestyle changes, those around us resent this change. Often resentment comes because they are afraid of losing us, but at other times it’s merely down to blatant jealousy that we have started to change our behavior.
So, what can you do? By taking note of the actions of those around you, you’ll be better equipped to deal with setbacks. Please remember, this is not about fault-finding, but rather it allows you to identify and prepare for hindrances to your new lifestyle.
A good support team will act positively about your change, compliment you on your healthy eating, help you overcome temptations, maybe offer to exercise with you
Identifying Negativity
Those who don’t have your best interests at heart are often those who push problem foods in your direction, make fun of your efforts to lose weight, or complain about the time you spend exercising.
If you identify anyone who may be acting contradictory to your own interests, how will you respond? Can you discuss the matter with them, maybe ignore them, avoid them completely, or graciously tell them that their negativity isn’t helpful?
How to Establish a Strong Support Network
- Openly tell your friends and family that you really need their support and help. Can they encourage you to eat healthy at home? Or maybe you can arrange a fun night of family team sports each week.
- Be a team builder – enthuse about the benefits of being healthier to your friends and family, and try to encourage them to join you. Can you sign up for a fitness class together?
- Make yourself available to new friends - by offering your email address, mobile or telephone number. Maybe you can swap exercise tips, or recipe ideas.
- Get involved - take part in whatever community clubs, or local exercise classes are available, opening up the possibility to make new friends.
I think online forums are a great way for people to find support with a new exercise or weight loss program. It is often the case, that the people in your immediate surroundings are not be the best choice for supporting a change. In a forum you will also tend to get more honest feedback about your progress, and it can be easier to admit to slips which keeps you more honest with yourself.
ReplyI think online communities are better than nothing.
They are absolutely no replacement for a good trainer, or in-person supporting individual(s).
This is from someone who is running an online community for healthy life, fitness, etc.
Melanie points out properly - if you feel those you surround yourself with do not help you achieve your goals, you need to move on.
ReplyWho needs support,I lost 145 pounds all by myself...I'm so lonely.
ReplyThis was a great article. Social support when it comes to successful weight loss is huge. It's hard to succeed when those around you don't help you along the way.
I was just speaking with a client of mine who's really turned things around for herself. She puts a large emphasis of her success on the strong social support network that she has. It's been the difference between failing many times, and succeeding this time.
Erik Ledin
Replywww.leanbodiesconsulting.com
great article, I find many of the people i work with, and those on my programme always find good support for their efforts (even if they expected none at all when setting out) and that really makes the difference in times of doubt.
ReplyFor over a year, I have been coaching my cleansers individually. We've recently found that group calls achieve even greater results. Many minds come up with inventive and workable tips to help reach established goals.
Best wishes for a healthy, happy and BLESSED Christmas season. Annamarie
ReplyEveryone - many thanks for your comments so far.
I really am a firm believer in the importance of a strong support network, and this can be said for all areas of life, not just weight loss!
Annamarie - you are completely correct, group work can have major benefits in terms of support, advice, empathy, etc for individuals.
ReplyI have a support network on cagedanimal.net
I have a journal that they critique and hold me to my goals! A great support network for weightlifting.
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