How to Motivate Your Spouse to Lose Weight

Have you ever seen a loved one struggle with their weight loss? Did you know that thinking about the various health conditions associated with obesity – diabetes, cancer, heart disease and stroke – can generate some discussion about the diseases and weight loss, but it can also produce various feelings and reactions such as a feeling of being attacked, shame, self-doubt and the feeling that they always have to make excuses.
If you want to help your spouse lose weight, it’s very important that you do it without offending them. Even though you may feel like this is a near impossible task, being the encouraging person they need to begin their weight loss program is one of the best things you can do for them.
Below are some tips to help you help them get through this journey to a better, more healthy life.
- First off, listen to them. If your spouse is concerned about their weight, just listen. You don’t need to share your own concerns at this time, just listen to them talk about theirs and ask what you can do to help them. You could even give them some helpful suggestions about things they can do to get started. They could take a walk every day and treat themselves to regular weight loss goal rewards. You could shop together and purchase healthier foods to keep on hand instead of snacks or junk food items. You could even go so far as suggesting they see a registered dietician to get them on a healthy eating plan.
- Give supportive and positive comments. You don’t ever want to offend your spouse by giving unwanted advice, so don’t. Give positive comments that let them know that you support them. Focus on the positive things, and never on the negative things.
- Be a role model. Start eating healthier yourself and choose topics of conversation that lead to healthy behaviors. You could ask them to join you on your walks or invite them to have a healthy snack with you. Don’t ever offer foods that will sabotage their efforts and choose activities that are active rather than sedentary.
- Be their cheerleader. Every time they hit one of their goals, no matter how big or small, tell them how proud you are of them. If they aren’t hitting their goals, be extra supportive and keep them motivated by giving them positive thoughts.
When it comes to your spouse’s weight loss journey, a little bit of support goes a long way. You would be surprised what you and your spouse can do together when you work as a team and keep each other motivated. Pick a goal, make a plan and start losing weight together.


Image and Article Credit : Healthy By All Means