Motivating someone to lose weight is a challenge unless that person is ready to make a commitment. You can be instrumental in helping a friend or family member in the ups and downs of her weight-loss struggle if she is ready. Weight loss and subsequent weight maintenance is a life-long process. It does not happen overnight, and to effectively motivate someone may mean a long-term commitment on your part.
Step 1
Lead by example by exercising regularly and eating healthily. Discourage him from going on fad diets. Instead, suggest he stick with a healthy, balanced diet.
Step 2
Offer praise and encouragement to validate her effort. Pay attention to her body and let her know any changes you are noticing. Try not to nag or insult her if she falls off the wagon. Nothing motivates better than a compliment.
Step 3
Try not to nag or insult her if she falls off the wagon.
Step 4
Help him through the tough times; if he has a buddy to help him through, he is much more likely to be successful. Strategize together on ways to deal with stressful situations such as out-of-town guests, parties, holidays and vacations. Help him handle people who may be sabotaging his efforts.
Step 5
Focus on the solution, not the problem. Don't allow her to beat herself up with self-defeating attitudes such as "I'm so fat" or "I'll never lose this weight." Negative comments waste energy and will only make the problem worse. Replace these with affirming statements such as "I am capable of losing weight" and "I am valuable person, no matter what I weigh."
Step 6
Don't be hurt or take it personally if he doesn't stick with the program. Losing weight can be a complex issue requiring professional assistance.
References
- "Making the Cut"; Jillian Michaels; 2007
- Weight Watchers: Help Your Partner Lose Weight
- "Lifestyle & Weight Management Consultant Manual"; American Council on Exercise; 1996
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