Week Seven - Support

Despite having a busy work week and social life I've had a good week and continue to slowly lose weight. I have a projected graph to plot my progress and this is just about on course. I would be more pleased if I was in line or even better below my target line but I am still delighted with my progress to date.

I would advise anybody doing the same to be pleased with any positive results whatever they are and embrace the lifestyle changes. Felling better about yourself is all that really matters and I believe the rest will follow. There is only one person you should compare against and that is yourself. This week's picture is me last Christmas against me last month and whilst I still have a long way to go I'm pleased and that is all that matters. Be comfortable with yourselves and never compare your body or appearance to some airbrushed healthy fitness model or icon!

I will save goals and objectives for another week as I wanted to share my thoughts on support.

As you already know I have signed up with Chris for a 6 month period as a personal nutritionist but I firmly believe he is only part of the journey and I class him as the second most important person right behind me! If yo don't believe in yourself and seek change you will never succeed in anything. Having said that Chris is invaluable in the process and the support and help is terrific every week. I know I wouldn't have done so well for a sustained period without him.

But as I continue I realise there are other elements of support you can surround yourself with some of which has always been there but just not realised. Friends and family can be a great help especially those who are like-minded.

I have said it before just a friend or colleague commenting on how you have changed has an amazing effect even on those of us that 'shy' about compliments. Take it from me it gives you a boost inside and a determination to carry on knowing it is working. So I would urge others to say it not think it if your friend is on the same lifestyle change and looking good.

I am fortunate in having even more support from the other people on Chris's programme with access to chat and share ideas and recipes. This in my opinion is another fantastic tool of support. All helping each other giving you a nudge when you need it or restoring someone's believe that they can achieve and stay on track.

Swapping meal ideas and recipes saying what works for them or where they struggle is good for all in the group. Knowing you're not alone and that others are wanting to change and then seeing their success has such an impact (sorry for the pun Chris)

The group is kept lighthearted and in some cases almost a confessional tool of your guilt when you have strayed off the path. Three Hail Broccoli after confession and most are back in the fold eager to progress. We are not robots and it would be quite boring if we all stayed perfectly on track.

The use of social media today means these sort of groups can be used in such a positive manner however it doesn't have to be so high tech. The same can be achieved by that good old method of talking! I know so many people at the gym for instance on the same journey and others who have always or recently decided to change. Just a quick chat about how they and you is so good changing stories or getting suggestions all goes to help.

Let's all use social media as a positive and not to trawl through the web etc. wondering why you don't look like some of the people on fitness and health sites. These can give people negative ideas about themselves cause depression and negativity. Don't go there we are all just ordinary people looking to improve our health and lifestyle and ask yourself how many people do you actually see in your everyday life who comes close to looking like someone from Instagram etc.etc.

Let's face it though it's not all rosy in this world there are temptations and others who will question what you are doing even trying to tempt you back to your old ways. These people find you amusing, they will laugh at you asking why you need to do this, Some of the comments I get are

'I eat what I want, always will I don't want to be boring!'

'So you've stopped drinking then? Don't you wish you could have a drink?'

'Can't believe how you have changed!' (sarcastically)

'Don't you miss cakes, bacon butties, pizza etc.'

'Do you think it makes a difference?'

'You should eat what you want like I do'

Well I hear these comments and just laugh! If you take the time to listen to what I actually do and eat you would realise that most of your comments are incorrect!

I often wonder why these comments are made. I don't know the answer but it could be a hint of jealousy? Lack of understanding? A desire to make everybody like them?

Whatever it is I just see the funny side and carry on with my goal. Make sure you do the same.

If I can walk into a full building site cabin start eating my oats and beery breakfast in front of them and when asked if I want a drink produce my own redbush teabag then it is clear to anybody I've got my own mind and agenda.

Actually a lot show a keen interest in what I am doing and support again comes from the most unlikely sources.

Have a great week people. Early blog release next week as I am away for a few days - now that is going to be a challenge!!