When you’ve taken the first big step toward actively pursuing your goals, those around you should be celebrating you! Right? That’s not always the case, though. When you’re pursuing a healthier lifestyle, making changes to your diet and choosing exercise over hanging out, undoubtedly some people will resent it. It’s often not directly malicious behavior, but sometimes it can sure feel that way.
When you choose to stay in during lunch hour and eat your grilled chicken and veggies while the work team goes out for wings, you may hear whispers from others who think you should “live a little”. They may call you a little “obsessed” or “extreme” when you decide to give up dairy for health reasons, or when you mention you wake up at 5 AM to get your workout in. Don’t let that bother you!
I’m here to tell you: you are not responsible for making other people feel comfortable about doing nothing. The same people who try to usurp your plans for a lifestyle change are the same ones wishing they could get in better shape or more energized throughout their day. However, they may not be ready to dedicate themselves to the changes that are required. Don’t let their frustrations and fears stop you! If they can stop you, they can continue to feel that “starting the journey isn’t even worth it.”
I encourage you to leave behind the people who try to stop you in your tracks. Make the best decisions for your health, and don’t hold yourself accountable for other people’s feelings!