Happy Mindful Monday!

Trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle is definitely easier when you have like-minded people around, but what if your loved ones aren’t on the same page? It can be really hard to avoid temptations when, for instance, your parents are always stocking up on junk food or your social life is primarily structured around going out to dinner. Today I’ll be sharing some lessons I’ve learned about staying on track when those around you (i.e. your friends, parents, or significant other) aren’t ready to give up the junk food and/or incorporate exercise into their daily lives.

First off, be firm but considerate. Let them know that your eating and exercise choices are not simply fad diets, but a lifestyle that you are trying to maintain. Keep in mind that your parents may have grown up in a time when it was important to eat everything on their plate, and that when you refuse the food they lovingly prepare for you there may be some hurt feelings. It is important to tell them that you appreciate what they do for you, but you feel the happiest and healthiest when you are putting the right food into your body. You might encounter a lot of resistance at first, but soon enough they’ll come to accept your decision and might even join you!

When it comes to those social gatherings at restaurants, you can’t necessarily avoid them if you want to also maintain healthy relationships with your friends. I suggest researching the menu ahead of time and planning out what you want to eat. Consider options that are high in protein and come with a side of veggies. If you’re ordering a salad, ask for dressing on the side and don’t be afraid to modify the offerings to suit your diet (ex. add on an extra protein like double grilled chicken). A lot of places have a “health conscious menu” or gluten-free options, as well as calorie counts that make it easier now more than ever to make an informed decision.

Another critical tip is to meal prep. Preparing meals ahead of time will help you avoid the temptation that comes when only unhealthy options are available. If you are still living at home and your parents refuse to buy the supplies you need, there are loads of cheap healthy ingredients you can buy in bulk (ex. rice or frozen veggies). It all comes down to prioritizing your time and money to suit your goals!

Don’t shove it in their faces!! No one likes to be told they are eating or living in the wrong way. Sharing your success is okay, but you need to realize that your lifestyle isn’t for everyone. No matter how good your intentions are, you can never force someone to change their ways. Offer to prepare healthy meals on certain days of the week so you can show them that eating clean is delicious and easy. Take it slow and show them through example what healthy diet and exercise can do for the mind and body 🙂

When all else fails and you can’t seem to get your family and friends to come around to a healthy lifestyle, think about recruiting a new #fitfam. Attend some group classes at your local gym and relish in the positive energy you find there. Sign up for a rec league or your local running club to make some new friends and lasting memories. Join an online community and gain social support by sharing your fitness journey with complete strangers. With that being said, follow me on Insta @the_robyns_nest and we can support each other in a judgement free zone!

Let me know what you do to stay healthy when your loved ones aren’t in the comments below. Hope everyone had a great start to their week and I will talk to you again soon 🙂

Love, Robyn