Positive Relationships
Be Ready for Change in Your Relationships
You may know by now that bariatric surgery can lead to significant changes in your life. Your health may improve , you may have more energy to do the activities you enjoy, you may gain more self confidence, and more!
In addition, you may also experience changes in your relationships with others, both positive and negative. Regrettably, obesity remains a stigma in our culture. You may notice that, as people around you watch you lose weight, they may begin to react differently to you, such as:
- Some people may become jealous of the progress you are making in losing weight.
- Others who never talked to you before surgery may begin socializing with you.
- Individuals may invite you to more social events.
- Members of the opposite sex may notice you more.
- And there are some instances where people close to you may not want you to succeed.
The people who attempt to hamper, hurt, or sabotage your efforts to lose weight may be members of your own family or close friends. These people have been referred to as “intimate saboteurs”40 and here is how they may react to your new lifestyle:
- In a couple of reported cases, spouses felt jealous or insecure about their spouse’s weight loss.40
- In another case, obese family members tried to persuade the person to have her surgery reversed because they felt uncomfortable with her new eating habits and new appearance.40
- Another patient lost her best friend because her friend didn’t want her to be thinner than she was.40
These examples stress the importance of building a support team made up of positive, encouraging individuals. Surround yourself with others who will support your new eating habits, who will encourage you, and perhaps will even exercise with you.
Spend time with people who understand how you feel. They should cheer you on as you reach each goal and support you if you get discouraged or stumble. This support team could include members of your family, friends, coworkers, your bariatric program, and support groups. Additionally, Realize mySuccess™ will be available to you 24/7 for added support and resources.
Being with positive people during your weight loss journey will inspire you and help you reach your weight loss goals. Print a few copies of our "How To Support Me Guide" and share them with those who will join your support team.
