MyWeightLossForLife.com

Tips for avoiding diet sabotage

Recently, I wrote about how we often sabotage our own efforts at weight loss. I’m sure that you also know that others do their part in sabotaging us as well.

First of all, remember that it’s rarely done on purpose or out of spite. In fact, usually the person doesn’t realize it at all, so don’t get angry. The best option is to recognize it, examine the reasons behind it, and deal with it from there.

Let’s talk about those people who make it difficult without meaning to or realizing they’re doing it. Maybe they bring donuts several times a day or show up in your office with their latest baked goodies. Instead of getting frustrated, try something like, “Everything you bring is so good, I find I can’t resist it. Since I’m trying to lose weight, would you help me by not offering? I just can’t say no to your homemade goodies!”

Others will insist that you socialize with them by eating out. If that’s the case, stick with appetizers or something light. Drink diet drinks and avoid the alcohol; it’s loaded in calories. Offer to be the designated driver.

Still others will try to convince you that you don’t need to lose weight. These may be genuine compliments or just the person’s way of being nice. Accept it as a compliment but explain that you want to do this for you.

You’ll also need to deal with others’ fears. If you lose weight, will your partner feel threatened or jealous? Will your best friend feel self-conscious? If you lose weight, others are bound to look at you differently, and that can be scary for them. If you find that your family and friends are less than supportive, recognize that it’s likely fear that’s motivating their behavior. You may have to reassure them that even though your body is changing, you won’t.