Weight Loss without Worry

     Often when we are trying to reach a weight loss goal we find ourselves presented with an uncomfortable feeling or thought that could derail us if we dwelled on it.  On last night’s Biggest Loser show (11/06/07), Kae, who is undoubtedly the hardest working contestant on the show was paired with Amy, who is often described as the first one to slack off.  This did not sit well with Kae and she was having a hard time accepting the pairing because she knew if Amy did not work hard it could mean that their partnership would be vulnerable and possibly face elimination from the game.

     Bob, the trainer, did a fantastic job helping Kae reframe the situation and turn what started as a scary situation into an empowering one.  Bob talked with Kae about how she was feeling and let her acknowledge that she felt everyone viewed her as a threat and "she had a big ‘X’ on her back" - meaning she felt targeted for elimination.  Bob’s response?  "Yes, I think you are right, how cool is that, now own it", and with that said he got up, took out a roll of tape and put a big "X" on Kae’s back.   

     What Bob did was brilliant psychology.  He didn’t try to console Kae or tell her she was wrong to think or feel that way, instead he said, "own it".  He reframed the situation in Kae’s mind so she could look at it differently.  Being targeted didn’t mean she would lose the game, all it meant was she was doing a great job and she was tough.

     Life always hands us situation like the one Kae faced.  Maybe for us it is a friend who feels threatened by our weight loss or a co-worker that constantly tries to sabotage our diet by bringing us desserts.  We can’t control the actions of others but we can control our reaction.  Be proud of your accomplishments and your commitment and don’t view others as a threat to your goal, instead reframe the situation, and consider this, you must be making some noticeable changes if others are reacting in this way.