STICK TO YOUR GUNS

WEIGHT LOSS SABOTEURS

The eating buddy Who are they? This is the person who used to share your unhealthy lifestyle. They may be overweight or unhealthy themselves. It is possible they may be threatened by the changes you are making.

How to recognise them: They are likely to encourage you to slip or give up, saying things like “Oh, you have been so strict on yourself; just have this one piece of chocolate”, or “come on, let’s go out for a drink, you can miss pilates just this once, can’t you?”

What to do: Try talking to your friend and explaining how important these new goals are to you. Make them see that your desire to improve your own health is not a judgment on them. It’s unfortunate, but unless they

can then offer you the support you need, you then need to limit time with them until you are sure they will have no effect on your dedication.

The star of the show

Who are they? This is the person who has always been the fittest, healthiest or slimmest in your circle. Sometimes this person has defined themselves by this, and it is possible they are worried the spotlight will be taken off them and they resent this.

How to recognise them: They may try to derail all your hard work by undervaluing what you are doing. They are likely to say things like “Is this really worth all this effort?” or “I think you looked fine the way you were”.

What to do: Recognise why this person is doing this and through your actions show them they are valued by you and your circle of friends. Explain to them how much these goals mean to you and let them know you find them to be an inspiration in this. Hopefully this will bring them to a better place of understanding.

The cynic

Who are they? This is the person who finds fault with almost everything, and this time it may be your health and fitness goals.

How to recognise them: These are the people who will roll their eyes when you ask for a special order at a cafe to fit in with your fitness goals, or they may even belittle you with jokes or sarcastic comments.

What to do: Ignore, ignore, ignore. If they can’t support you, steer clear.