Sometimes, despite having the best intentions, the people closest to us can get in the way of us reaching our goals. This is especially true for people who are on a weight loss journey. Friends may be upset that they’ll be seeing less of their happy hour buddy. Family members might wonder why you’re not going back for seconds when you’ve reliably done so for so long. Setting boundaries early and often is essential for your weight loss journey. Here’s how it’s done:
When you decide to lose weight, you can expect to start getting a lot of advice. Not all of it is useful. Share your specific goals with those closest to you. Make sure they know why you’re planning to lose weight and what you want to accomplish. Talk to them about how you plan to achieve your goals and how things might change during this time. It helps to start by setting the expectation.
Saying “yes” to weight loss means saying “no” to the habits that caused you to gain weight. This means being assertive in refusing offers of unhealthy foods. It may mean re-explaining what your goals are and why you need to practice self-control. Politely decline invitations to events that may derail your progress, such as bottomless mimosa brunch and all-you-can-eat dinner outings. You don’t have to stop going out, but you do need to be mindful of what can trigger bad habits.
The support of loved ones is an essential part of a successful weight loss journey. However, not everyone gives that support in a meaningful way. Identify individuals who will encourage and uplift you. Who this is may change over time, and that’s OK. Spend more time with people who give you the confidence you need to thrive in your weight loss journey and limit your time with anyone who brings you down.
For some people, sharing food is how they show love. Unfortunately, this is not helpful when you’re trying to lose weight. Learn how to politely decline excessive pressure to eat or drink when you’ve had enough. Practice being assertive in expressing your preference for eating in a way that helps you reach your weight loss goals. Make it clear that you enjoyed the first portion and don’t need seconds to appreciate the food they made for you. It’s not about them—it’s about you and your goals.
The most important way to set boundaries is by taking time for yourself. Life often pulls us in many different directions, so you may need to schedule time to relax and unwind. That time you take for yourself matters. Make sure you don’t miss it because others want your attention. In taking time for self-care, you also need to learn to give yourself grace. Be forgiving towards yourself during setbacks or challenges in your weight loss journey. They will happen. The best thing you can do is acknowledge it, forgive yourself and keep moving forward.
Setting boundaries can be hard, especially in today’s interconnected world. However, they are essential for meeting your goals, in weight loss and beyond. Remember that your time is valuable, and you only get this one life. Set those boundaries, and live your life in a way that serves you.
