"One Bite Won't Kill You"

Hi My Sweet Sweet Friends,

Today I wanted to talk about something that my coworkers and I talk about quite frequently, especially now that it is summer, and many of us are traveling to see friends and family.

If you are newer to this lifestyle you may notice that those around you don't truly seem to understand what you are doing or why in the world you are doing what you do.

Why do you carry a food scale with you?

Why do you have to meal prep on Sunday?

What the heck are macros?

Why do you have to go to the gym?

Why do you take your meals with you?

Why do you take so many progress pictures?

Why won't you have a small piece of cake?

When will you be off of your diet?

Why can't you go out tonight?

ETC!

It is exhausting to have to explain all of these things over and over again but it can also feel... awkward. It draws a lot of attention to you because as sad as it is, in today's world, what we do is not "normal". Many of you may feel alone or that you are the only one in the world that lives the lifestyle that you do but I promise you, you are not! In fact, what you are feeling happens to so many of us.

So how do you get your family and friends to support you?

The first thing I want you to understand is that gaining support will take time. Many will most likely be skeptical of you, thinking this is a temporary diet or health kick fad but with time they will see your gains, they will see how happy you are and how dedicated you are to your chosen lifestyle and they will begin to accept it with time. People like to question and disapprove of the things that they don't understand. Which leads me to,

Second, always be courteous in the way you explain your answers to these many questions. You never want to make people feel indifferent or inferior that they are not living the lifestyle you do. Think about it, years ago there was probably a point in time you thought "gym rats" were crazy. Also keep in mind that it is not a good idea to shove your lifestyle down someone's throat... its like religion... just don't do it. You can never get someone to do something by forcing them.

Third, don't grow discouraged! This by far is the most important point. Unfortunately, you will most likely deal with people making fun of your lifestyle but don't let it get to you. Always remember why you started your journey and how much better you feel since your beginning.

Fourth, be respectful and aware that not all have the same level of education in health (everyone has a different definition). Its shocking to me to see what most think are "healthy choices". In fact, it makes my heart sad. So many fall into the traps of label claims, never bothering to look at the macros or ingredient list. For instance, one of my family members thinks marinating chicken in teriyaki sauce is "healthy" prior to grilling it. With my fitness goals, consuming teriyaki sauce would be like consuming large portions of soy sauce. Both of these sauces are loaded in sodium, and make me blow up like a balloon. Is this a better option than say fried chicken? Of course it is! The point is to be mindful that not everyone's goals are the same as yours just as everyone's definition of health is different.

Fifth, be completely honest (especially when given the opportunity). Sometimes when you are given the opportunity to speak you need to be completely honest. I know I had to with one of my family members, I remember telling her, "______, I love you and I love that you want to make all these yummy things for me. But I need you to respect and understand that this is the lifestyle I chose and I am prepping for an event that is really important to me. I have come so far in my journey and I do not want anything to hinder my progress. I need you to understand that by me bringing my own meals it is not in any way to be disrespectful towards you but to help me stay on track. This is very important to me. So when I decline a cookie, please do not continue to ask me if I am sure." Something along those lines. Usually, I receive kind words and respect in return. Just be mindful of the other person's feelings, keep point #2 in mind.

I understand how frustrating it can be to be an "outsider". Please know that you are not alone and are apart of my fitfam if you don't already have one :) Keep pushing. Keep making gains. You've got this. You are worthy of your success.

-xxoo Britt