Confession Time Ok, it's confession time. When I was young, there were some kids that I used to hang out with for hours during the summer or after school playing basketball. Those were some of the most enjoyable times of my life. Unfortunately, I can also recall each and every one of us cursing like sailors whenever we were together. While our vulgar language was essentially harmless but certainly not acceptable in polite company, many still became quite skilled at intertwining profanity in such a way that it made everything they said funnier than it would have been without it. The oddity of it all was how the profanity we used would disappear from our vocabulary whenever we were in the company of our parents. Junior hypocrites, you might say, and most of us know that cursing in the presence of your parents is probably not in your best interest either. Boys Will Be Boys My buddies and I all used profanity as the result of association. We simply influenced each other to the point whereby not only was it acceptable -- it was expected. Just as you will find that scholars hang out with scholars, reading enthusiasts are drawn to other readers, and criminals tend to hang around fellow thugs. Eaters Will Be Eaters If you are struggling with a weight management issue you may be a member of a group of fellow eaters. This could be just one person or several comrades -- all of whom help each other to stay fat. Making A List The solution is to redefine the nature of your relationship. You may have to sit down with those colleagues in the "fat brigade" who have been helping you stay plump. Jointly make a list of the excuses you have all been making that have been keeping each of you from losing weight. Then come up with an action and accountability plan to help each other make healthy lifestyle changes. Perhaps together as a group you could begin some sort of exercise program or make a resolution to stop dining together. Making A Commitment Make a commitment to spend time on a regular, ongoing basis with those who can help you become healthy, fit, and focused on becoming a better you. |
