HOW TO TALK TO FRIENDS/FAMILY ABOUT YOUR LIFESTYLE CHANGES
Have you gotten these comments before?
“That's all you're eating?”
“Are you really going back for seconds?”
“That's a little extreme, don't you think?”
“Wow, you're eating that much?”
“Oh come on, live a little!”
“Can't you just skip the gym?”
“Be careful, I read/someone told me/I saw on TikTok that ____ is good/bad for you.”
Receiving unsolicited, negatively-connotated comments and feedback from those close to you can feel discouraging no matter how we dice it.
HOW TO MAKE THESE INTERACTIONS MORE PEACEFUL
You shouldn’t have to defend your healthy lifestyle, so let’s talk about how you can make these interactions more peaceful.
You can:
Ignore the comment and change the subject or excuse yourself.
Address the comment gracefully.
If your family/friends don’t support your healthy lifestyle or are constantly bugging you about it:
Don’t be rude or react. Be chill.
Remember it’s not about you. People have a hard time with change, and seeing you change creates a “mirror” for them. They may not like the reflection.
It’s not your job to change or educate them.
You CAN share your “why” with them, be open about your struggles and your motivation for change, but you don’t have to.
Self-advocate: Be positive and excited about your changes. People typically won’t dash something that visibly brings you joy.
WHAT EXACTLY CAN YOU SAY IN THESE EXCHANGES?
Option A: Be Enthusiastic…then change the subject
“I’m in the middle of a lifestyle change, and I’m discovering this is what makes me feel the best. Are you still enjoying living in Colorado?”
“I recently started a lifestyle change, and it’s been fun trying out new habits and behaviors. I am feeling so much better these days! Hey, how’s your new job going?”
Option B: Use Your Coach as Your Scapegoat…then change the subject
“I am working with a professional to get healthier this year, so I’m following the guidelines they gave me. By the way, I love your shirt, where did you get it?”
“I recently hired a coach/trainer who gave me guidelines, and like the good student I am, I’m sticking to them! Did you say you’re in the market for a house?”
What if they start drilling you about working with a coach?
“Let’s be present / enjoy lunch / this occasion, and we can chat about it later. What are you doing for the New Year?”
“I’m happy to send you the website / my coach’s instagram if you’re curious. But what about you? Any fun vacations planned?”
Option C: Set a Boundary…Then change the subject
“I’d appreciate it if you didn’t comment on my body / what I’m eating.”
“Let’s change the subject. I actually wanted to get your thoughts on _____. ”
“No, thank you.”
“No.”
You deserve support and peaceful relationships in general, AND certainly during your journey to a healthier version of yourself.
We hope you found this helpful!
WITH GOOD VIBES - COACH TORI