On Relationships & Dieting :

How many times have you decided today is the day you are going to diet and lose weight, and then suddenly your partner sabotages your every attempt? Your significant other says he/she wants you to lose weight and promises, of course, to help, yet at every twist and turn they place a food trap or temptation at your feet.

Sound familiar? Then read this list of six things you need to do to enhance your relationship and focus on your healthy food style.

1. Change the word "diet" to way of life or healthy lifestyle . These phrases take away the stigma of dieting and diet foods. Your partner will eventually feel they too want to live healthily and have a new lifestyle. 2. Encourage your partner to help with the food selections and cooking preparations. Use this special time as a chance to do something healthy where you are both involved. Create a fun atmosphere, something that you both look forward to as a couple. Establish boundaries and decide to have fun together like when you first met and were getting to know each other.

3. Communicate what you need and want to hear for your lifestyle change. Many times people do not realize how hurtful and negative they are regarding your food and diet. Make a list of statements that you feel will motivate you and that you want to hear from your family. Create a list that is specific and direct and that can easily be followed. Give the list to those you love and post it on the refrigerator.

4. If your partner doesn’t need or want to change their food lifestyle, enlist their help as a partner, not a competitor. Barter. Offer your partner something they have been coveting if they assist you in changing your lifestyle. If they become your partner in healthy eating , you’ll assist them in obtaining what they want.

5. Write a letter to your partner about how you feel about your weight and yourself. Explain all the feelings you have and how much you want to look thinner and feel healthier. Share feelings about all the things you would do if you were thinner and felt better about yourself. Let your guard down so your partner understands how important it is for you to have support in your quest for change.

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