Sometimes the people around you might act to undermine your resolve, whether they're aware of it or not. That aunt who brings you her famous banana bread when she visits, for example, or the spouse who resents when you'd rather walk than watch TV after dinner. Another type of saboteur might act like the food police, commenting on every bite you take and pointing out when you "trip up." None are doing your health commitment any favors.
The best way to handle people like these is to make them aware of what they're doing, by talking about it in a nonconfrontational way. Many times, their behavior isn't intentional; it simply may not have occurred to your aunt that banana bread isn't appropriate for someone who's watching his or her blood glucose. Bringing it out into the open may be all that's needed.
But some people in your life may not truly support your efforts. Perhaps the thought of you succeeding at your goals makes them feel threatened or inadequate. Or, they might miss an activity you're no longer able to share with them—say, the daily doughnut break at work. Talking about it can help, especially if you can come up with alternatives that accommodate you both—for instance, meeting your doughnut-break buddy for a daily walk instead of pastries. But if you're unable to resolve the problem, don't let it hold you back. Focus instead on seeking the support you need from other sources.
"Have more—it's delicious!"
"Why won't you even try it?"
"Come on, lighten up—one bite won't kill you!"
Phrases like these are usually meant in the kindest way, but if you're trying to watch what you eat, they can trigger a tremendous emotional charge. After all, when people offer us food, they are often offering us love; they may feel that if you reject a food, you're rejecting them too. These emotions can be especially raw during the holidays, when cooks tend to invest more time and effort into making special dishes.
How do you stick to your resolve when you're offered something you're not comfortable eating? Choose phrases that acknowledge the person's feelings, but still make your point: "That looks amazing, and I wish I had room, but I'm really enjoying the [insert other food here]." If the server persists, take a little of the food and give it a try, if you like; there's no law that says you have to clean your plate. If you're offered a second helping you don't need, keeping your reply in the past tense gives your words a sense of finality: "It sure was delicious, but I've had enough." "I couldn't eat another bite, but it was fantastic."
If you have trouble saying no, take a tip from trained speakers and practice, practice, practice. Take some time ahead of the event to imagine what it will be like, being as specific as possible. Who will be there? What will be served? How will you act, and what will you say? Rehearse as much as you need to, until you feel you can head into the festivities with confidence.