Losing weight is more fun, and possibly easier, if you have the support of like-minded people. Having a place to share concerns, offer tips and have accountability can help relive the stress of weight loss. Stress is often cited as a major factor in overeating. While there are many weight loss groups already established, it's fairly easy to begin your own group, tailoring the diet and meeting schedule to your own needs.
Step 1
Visit weight loss groups already available to you and see how they work. Online support groups are offered at websites such as WeightWatchers.com and Sparkpeople.com. Note the way those groups operate and decide what you like or don't like about each group. Both Weight Watchers and Sparkpeople require registration to use their sites, but it's free to use the message boards and support groups.
Step 2
Decide the parameters of your group. Where will you meet? Will you all follow the same eating plan? Will you meet weekly? Will you charge any fees? How long will the meeting last? Will it be facilitated by a leader or will the group be more free-form? You can research your options by attending other groups such as Weight Watchers or Overeaters Anonymous to see how those meetings are conducted. If you decide to charge for your group, you will not be able to use any established weight loss plans, as that would be copyright infringement. Instead, you can work with a nutritionist to come up with a sound eating plan for weight loss or put your own weight loss successes into creating a diet.
Step 3
Write out a detailed plan for your weight loss group. Include a time-line for beginning the group, and any costs associated with the group, including room rentals, copying costs and advertising costs. This plan will help you determine if you need to charge a membership fee for your group.
Step 4
Take a class in starting a small business if you plan to make your weight loss group a business for which you will charge a fee. You local SCORE chapter offers workshops in starting a small business. The SCORE website also has assessment tools for you to see if you have the tools and desire to start a business. You will need to register for the website to have access to the tools.
Step 5
Put your plan into action by advertising your group. Put up fliers in doctors offices, supermarkets and other high-traffic areas. Make sure to include an email address or phone number so that people can call you for additional information. Be prepared to start slowly and build interest.
Tips and Warnings
- If you decide to charge for your group, meet with an accountant to see the best way to handle that income. Make sure to put a warning on your weight loss group materials that people seek medical advice before beginning any plan.
- Do not use any material from established weight loss groups, including the diet itself, as those companies own the rights to everything associated with the diet.
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