GUEST POST: Katie & The Importance of a Support System

I really love the idea of having guest bloggers here from time to time. Surely you get tired of reading my drivel, right? Well today you're all in for a treat as my buddy Katie from the #7daychip group on Twitter is joining in the fun here and posting about something really important when you're trying to lose weight: having a good, solid support system.

Please head on over to her blog and soak up some of her past posts. Since July of last year she has lost FIFTY pounds! That is an amazing accomplishment and her support system has been a vital component of her success! Thanks for sharing your insight, Katie!

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The Importance of A Support System

I am frequently asked the question I'm sure most successful dieters have heard at least a time or two, “How did you do it?” To answer that question completely I’d need several posts, but today I’ll touch on one of the fundamental needs of any dieter: a support system.

Ever heard the expression no man is an island? Well, it’s true! We are a social people, and we thrive on interaction with others. It feeds our soul on a primitive level. I can’t think of a more important time than when trying to lose weight to be in touch with others! Having a support system in place provides us with accountability and encouragement: the sustenance of any successful dieter. Our supporters cheer us on as we succeed and offer comfort and advise to pick us up when we stumble.

I am tremendously blessed to have a large and faithful support system. My husband is my biggest cheerleader, and just hearing him say he’s proud of how far I’ve come motivates me to keep going through the struggles. My blog has introduced me to another huge group of supporters. The comments and emails I receive warm my heart and help make all the difference to me on this journey. I also love the #7daychip group on twitter. They have really helped me work to get back on track after an extended holiday break, and I love that we all work together toward keeping our eating in check.

Many of my friends who were originally sideline supporters have jumped in the ring to go a few rounds. Just this month I’ve heard the progress three of them have made, and I love that we can all get healthy together. Having that support really does make all the difference. When times start to get tough I’ll reach out to my friends, tweet my struggles, or talk to my husband. On several occasions I’ve called him at work to talk me out of doing something stupid like binging or skipping the gym on an important workout day. He gives me a pep talk and I’m ready to rumble!

I think the most important characteristics of a support group are compassion and honesty. They work together to create the best support possible for achieving your goals. You want to surround yourself with people who care enough about you to tell you the cold hard truth that we don’t always want to here, but are capable of being sensitive when that’s what you need. It’s important to have both aspects because we need encouragement AND accountability on this journey in order to be successful.

One of my biggest pieces of advice to anyone trying to lose weight is to build a strong support system. If you don’t have one, find one. Make new friends who will support you, start a blog, or join a community group of people with the similar goals. Heck, take out a personal ad if you have to, just do it! Whatever you do just make sure you find that support, because without it you’re in for a very long and lonely ride. And if all else fails (or even if you just want more) come on over to my blog at www.areyouwilling.net or email me, katiewarren88@gmail.com. I love to be supportive and cheer others on! Nothing makes me happier than people achieving their goals!

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How to reach Katie:

Her blog: Finding The Thin Within

Her Facebook page: Finding The Thin Within on FB

Email her: katiewarren88@gmail.com

To learn more about the #7daychip group on Twitter: Brad Gansberg's #7daychip Program