Breathe Magazine

It’s hard enough to eat right and find time to workout consistently, but when you don’t have a good support system, it can make it that much harder. Just like how it’s easier to have that second helping of dessert when all your friends are, its easier to skip your workouts in favor of sleeping in or watching TV with your significant other.
So how do you deal when your partner just isn’t interested in a healthy lifestyle? Whether you are worried about their health, or their lifestyle is making the changes you are trying to achieve that much harder, having a loved one that doesn’t share your same views on health can be difficult.

It all comes down to respect. You can’t control their actions, but you can control your own. They have to respect the fact you are trying to take care of yourself and should help you out in any way that you need, but you also have to respect the fact they are in charge of themselves and can make their own decisions. Of course we want our loved ones to be healthy, but you can’t change someone. Clearly state what you need from your partner (them to encourage you to work out, not to bring home ice cream or take out after work, to watch the kids 3 nights a week so you can go to the gym) and make sure you let them know how appreciative you are for that.

Do not nag, pry, tease or guilt your partner into working out or eating right. No one can make a change until they want to, and you will only create animosity and resentment. Do, however, politely invite them to workout with you every time you go. If they say no, they say no, but maybe, just once, they will say yes. If you are in charge of cooking, cook them what they want, but make sure you eat your healthy meal as well. Ask them if they would like to try what you are having. If they say no, they say no, but maybe, just once, they will say yes.

Leading by example is the best thing you can do. If they see you happy and healthy and achieving your goals, perhaps that will be the push they need to join in. But perhaps most importantly, whether you are trying to lose weight, eat healthier, or both, you have to remember to look out for you. Use your workouts as your “me time” and enjoy your solitude. You are ultimately living a healthy lifestyle for yourself, so remember that and don’t let any one else’s bad habits derail you.

Being a good partner is being supportive, no matter what decisions your other half may make. You don’t have to agree with them, but you must respect them, offer your help and support and hope for the best. If they come around, perfect, but if not, hopefully they can return the favor by supporting you in your own endeavors.