Working with women seeking to change their lifestyle, Ive noticed a strange phenomenon. Often times when a woman decides to really commit to changing her life through fitness she receives a lot of resistance from friends and family. The more she accomplishes the more non-supporters attempt to undermine her achievements with comments such as: Oh, youre starting to look like a man or Youre losing your femininity. What is that all about? Dont hate - Appreciate!
Comments (5)
I've been working very hard to lose a huge amount of weight -- and have been extremely successful at it. However, some of my 'friends', who are involved in the 'fat acceptance movement', now make snarky remarks about my effort and goals.
I love changing my body and being in the best shape of my life. Perhaps I also need to find some new friends.
At least my family is extremely supportive.
Posted by Sarah | September 20, 2005 12:01 AM
Posted on September 20, 2005 00:01
What I always hear is, "oh, you're thin. Why do you have to workout?" I remind people that it ain't always about your shape. It's about being healthy and feeling strong. And keeping up muscle tone.
Posted by Jen | September 20, 2005 8:09 AM
Posted on September 20, 2005 08:09
For whatever reason, people are threatened by it. The naysayers can never come up with an explanation for why someone finally getting healthy is a bad thing.
WTG, Sarah. I agree that you need to seek more supportive friends, or at least tell the ones you have now to keep their negativity about your health choices to themselves.
Posted by Gloria | September 20, 2005 12:02 PM
Posted on September 20, 2005 12:02
It reminds people of their shortcomings. I think it hits too close to home.
I find that interesting because working out is a personal journey. There's no magic fix, even surgery has it's downside. (The pain of recuperating).
Just do the best you can. Be your #1 motivator in life. Even friends and family have their own agendas.
Posted by Yvonne W | September 21, 2005 5:05 AM
Posted on September 21, 2005 05:05
I agree with Yvonne, people are threatened by this sort of change because they usually don't have the discipline to do it themselves. The fact that you are succeeding makes them feel..guilty? jealous? embarassed?
Sarah has the right idea, be grateful for the support you do have and keep your distance from the haters.
Posted by sabrina | September 23, 2005 7:25 PM
Posted on September 23, 2005 19:25