Having a support system while you're on your weight loss journey has a much bigger impact on your goals than you might realise. Many people go on a diet to look and feel better about themselves and it can often be quite a long and lonely journey. BUT, it doesn't have to be! We're here to share why it is important to get support during your journey and our top tips for ensuring you're not alone!
So, why do I need support?
Above all other things, isn't life all about the people you surround yourself with? Whether you're looking to go shopping or heading to the cinema or even going for a walk, having some company while doing these things can often make it more enjoyable. So while we're not completely crazy and going to pretend you're going to LOVE dieting! You may actually find enjoyment out of it when you realise you are not alone.
- Share your advice: It's a great opportunity to share your tips and what's working for you (and of course what isn't!). Plus, if they're on the weight loss journey with you, they will likely have some tips you can try!
- Let it all out: Whether your HANGRY, tired, emotional (or likely, all three), it's important to have someone you can talk to this about. We always stand by, 'a problem shared, is a problem halved'.
- Stay accountable: When you're going it alone and you fall off the wagon, whose there to kick you back on? In all seriousness, giving yourself a reason to become accountable for your actions will give you more motivation to stay on track.
How do I get support?
In an ideal world having support would look something like you and your best friend or partner embarking on a weight loss journey together and living happily (and healthily) ever after. But, as we well know life does not work like that and I can guarantee every single one of us has that 'one friend' who is super slim and eats whatever they like (which we're totally cool with and have no issues with whatsoever, right?!).
So if you don't have someone to start your journey with, don't panic! Support comes in all shapes and sizes (and why shouldn't it!) and we're here to let you know you're not alone.
- Our closed community on Facebook is probably the best support you can ask for. We can't thank you all enough for your contribution, motivational posts, comical posts and inspiring stories to keep pushing others on! If you're reading this knowing you're not one who likes to speak up on the group much but could really do with the support - please reach out! Not only will everybody else welcome you, we will be here at Exante HQ to support you and remind you we're all in this together!
- Just because you don't have someone doing the diet with you, doesn't mean they can't support you! Sit down with your partner/a friend/a family member before starting your journey and ask them for support. This can be difficult for some people and if you feel you don't have someone close to you to ask, that's where Exante and the Facebook group will be your support!However, if you have someone, use them! Ask them to check-in with you, motivate you and encourage you when you feel like you need it. And importantly, tell them not to criticise you. You will make mistakes and you will come off plan but what's important is that you learn from it and are encouraged to get back on it, not punished for slipping up!
- Start a journal. If talking to people isn't your thing, that's also absolutely fine! A journal is the perfect way to express your thoughts and feelings and can keep you on track when you feel like things might be getting a bit tricky for you. It's also a great place to keep a food diary and keep yourself accountable while on your journey.