If you’ve ever been on a powerful mission to get healthier, eat better, and be consistent with your exercise routine, you may have noticed that certain friends and family aren’t in love with your new-found dedication.

If you’d rather take a listen, click here to listen to the latest episode of the Fit and Vibrant You Podcast (also available on iTunes and Stitcher Radio)  

And it’s not because they don’t love you. It’s because it’s hard for them to see you change.

Maybe they think you won’t be able to have as much fun because you’ll stop being as social. Maybe they’re irritated by your refusal to eat something they just baked. Maybe they’re upset that you declined Saturday morning mimosas in favor of hitting the gym.

I’m here to tell you that this is normal, that you can’t give into the pressure, and to help you understand why this is happening.

First, when your decisions aren’t aligned with what they desire from you, people can get upset. But this isn’t about you, it’s about them. Hold your ground and lovingly explain WHY you’ve made your choices. It’s then up to them as to whether or not they choose to accept it.

Second, it holds up a mirror to them. It makes them consider their own shortcomings or failure to stick with routines or focus on healthy habits. This is very uncomfortable for people when they aren’t ready to receive it.

As a friend, lover, or family member, one of the best things you can do for others is take care of yourself and become the best version of YOU. The next best thing you can do is invite them along for the ride.

So, does this remind you of anyone in your life right now? Is there a conversation you need to have?

For those of you who are already working with us here at Ascend Fitness + Lifestyle, we want to make life easier on you and better for them. Bring him or her in for a workout with you. We promise to care for them and give them an amazing experience. And hopefully, we even give them an “aha moment” that gets them excited about pursuing goals similar to you.

If you’re training with us, leave a comment and tell us a little bit about how this resonates (if it does), and if you aren’t training with us, we’d love to have you in for a free personal training session and goal setting session. Just leave us a comment and let us know that you’d like to take advantage of this. We’re here to support you and those you care about!

To becoming our best selves,

Tanja X

P.S. Now is a GREAT time to get your friends on board at Ascend Fitness (or if you’re not training with us, to connect with a friend or family member who already is an Ascend member!). From now until September 30, our members get a $100 gift certificate to Lulu Lemon when they refer a friend- and their friend gets $100 off their first month of training! It’s a WIN-WIN! 

P.P.S. I just created this FREE guide to Dropping a Dress Size and Boosting Your Energy (specifically for women over 40) Click here to download!