It can feel lonely when those around you aren’t on the same journey. Friends and family might not understand why you’re making different choices at mealtime, or they might unintentionally make it harder by offering you food you’re trying to avoid.
This is where
living by example comes in. You don’t need to convince others to join you, but you can inspire them by showing the benefits of your lifestyle changes. And if you need more support,
connecting with a community online or in person can make a world of difference. Others can relate to your experience, and they’re out there to cheer you on—you just don’t know it yet.
Overcoming Emotional Eating
When some people experience
stress, boredom, or sadness, they can turn to (typically unhealthy) food as a source of comfort. Unfortunately, this may lead to overeating and complicated feelings of guilt. This emotional eating can be one of the hardest struggles to overcome and so often feels like self-sabotage.
Breaking the cycle of emotional eating involves understanding your triggers and finding alternative ways to cope with your emotions. Whether it’s through
journaling, talking to a friend, or going for a walk, having a plan for those tough moments can help you make healthier choices.
Considering Weight Loss Medication
For some people, weight loss medication can be a helpful tool, especially if they’ve struggled with obesity or medical conditions related to weight. It’s important to have an open conversation with your healthcare provider to decide whether medication is an option that could support your goals. (Just remember, medication is only one part of the equation—it needs to be combined with a healthy lifestyle for lasting results.)
Remember, struggles during the weight loss journey are often with the work of long-term change—and that’s challenging for anyone. So, give yourself grace. Progress may not always be linear, and there will be bumps along the way. But as long as you keep moving forward and building on those healthy habits, you’ll find that the changes become part of who you are.