If someone you know is having a difficult time losing weight, there are a variety of ways to offer encouragement and support. While it may be tempting to keep tabs on their diet or suggest new exercises, Dr. Martin Binks, director of behavioral health and research at the Duke Diet and Fitness Center, recommends just the opposite. The key, says Binks, is to listen to what your friend or loved one needs and help him stick to the goals he set.
Step 1
Ask the person what you can do to help. Take note of any triggers that threaten to derail him. For example, if he has a particular weakness for fried chicken, make sure you only invite him to healthy vegetarian restaurants.
Step 2
Offer to be an exercise buddy. If your friend has a hard time motivating himself to exercise in the evenings, suggest that you meet for a walk in the park right after work.
Step 3
Introduce your friend to others with similar interests in physical activity. If you know he wants to try yoga and you have a friend who hits the mat every weekend, invite them both over to your house to connect. You not only will be helping him further his weight-loss goals, but you'll also help him build a larger support network.
Step 4
Praise your friend when he makes progress toward his goals. Compliment him on his weight loss and let him know you're proud of him.
Step 5
Suggest you get together for activities that don't involve food. Instead of going to a restaurant, go to a play, concert or poetry reading. Discovering new things you enjoy doing together will not only show your support of his weight-loss goals, but it also can help deepen your friendship.
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