5 Steps to Building Your Weight Loss Support Network
5 Steps to Building Your Weight Loss Support Network
Having a weight loss buddy or support system can make a significant difference in your journey towards a healthier lifestyle. Research has shown that having a supportive network can increase your chances of success and make the process more enjoyable. However, knowing that you need help doesn’t automatically make a support system appear. So, how do you build the village you need to reach your goals?
Step 1: Commit to Change
Before you reach out to a potential support partner, make sure you’re at a stage in your weight loss journey that will allow you to commit. "A clear commitment on your part will strengthen the buy-in of a potential support system," says Nicole Rodriguez, RDN, of Enjoy Food Enjoy Life in Long Beach, New York.
Step 2: Consider Who Already Supports You
Not just anyone can be a support partner for you — even if they’re also losing weight. So, think about which people in your life would encourage you most. "Divide your friends and family into two categories: those who always cheer you on, and those who don’t always cheer you on," says Lyssie Lakatos, RDN, co-founder of The Nutrition Twins in New York City. "Only let the ones who always cheer you on into your support circle."
Step 3: Look Outside Your Inner Circle
Don’t have anyone in your close circle who would be a good fit as a support partner? Try these other strategies to find someone you can bond with.
- Use forums on the Lose It! app. What better place to find your person than on the platform you already use to lose weight? Within the app, Lose It! has discussion groups where you can share thoughts with others who know exactly what you’re going through.
- Find support groups online. Beyond the tribe you discover on Lose It!, you can find plenty of other weight-loss support-group resources online. Not sure where to dig around? Start on Meetup.com and search for a weight loss or group-fitness training group in your area. You could also do a general Google search for online forums or check Facebook and other social media apps.
- Join a new gym. This puts you in a room with other like-minded people you wouldn’t meet otherwise. You could also try local community centers that offer fitness classes.
- Ask your dietitian or psychologist. Chances are, they may be able to help you. "They often offer small support groups where they lead the group," says Tammy Lakatos Shames.
Step 4: Ask for Help
When asking for support from others along your weight loss journey, try to be clear, positive, and straightforward. Experts suggest the following steps.
- Cut to the chase. Rodriguez recommends being direct. "Be completely transparent and upfront. The biggest mistake people make when asking for help is not cutting to the chase. Instead of leading with ‘Hey, how you’ve been … how’s everything?’ lead with ‘I would like your help with something because I love/trust/admire you.’"
- Approach with authenticity. Tammy Lakatos suggests asking for support in a way that will be well-received: Tell the person about your healthy eating plan, say you’re excited about it, and let them know how it will improve your life.
- Say what you need. "Maybe you need a workout buddy, someone to cook with, or a coworker to share in healthy lunchtime choices," says Lauren Harris-Pincus, RDN, of Basking Ridge, New Jersey. "Communicate your short- and long-term goals and set boundaries for how you would like to receive feedback."
Step 5: Maintain a Positive Relationship
Remember, support is a two-way street. Ensure your relationship with your weight loss support partner benefits both of you with these practices.
- Offer support as much as you receive it. Weight loss talk can be repetitive and granular. While it might feel good to share every morsel of food you ate and calorie you burned at the gym, you also need to nurture the relationship with your support partner. That way, both of you get what you want out of it.
- Be considerate. Rodriguez suggests learning how to read the room. "If someone takes a while to text you back at certain times, consider not reaching out during those hours," she says. "Show small gestures of gratitude often, whether it’s a handwritten thank-you note when you get started or sending a thoughtful gift certificate when you reach your first weight loss goal."
Conclusion
Building a strong support system can significantly boost your weight loss success and make your journey more enjoyable. With the right partners, you’ll find the encouragement, accountability, and motivation to reach your weight loss goals — and celebrate your achievements along the way.
FAQs
Q: Who can be my weight loss support partner?
A: Anyone who is supportive and non-judgmental can be your weight loss support partner, including friends, family members, or online community members.
Q: How do I ask for help from others?
A: Be clear, positive, and straightforward when asking for help. Cut to the chase, approach with authenticity, and say what you need.
Q: What are some benefits of having a weight loss support partner?
A: Having a weight loss support partner can increase your chances of success, provide encouragement and accountability, and make the process more enjoyable.
Q: How do I maintain a positive relationship with my weight loss support partner?
A: Offer support as much as you receive it, be considerate, and show small gestures of gratitude often.
