Weight loss journeys are not always linear. No matter where we’re at in our journeys, there is always the possibility for life to present setbacks, challenges and struggles.

Many of us may struggle to eat well, we may be in school, work long hours, have kids, or may even have an injury or disability that makes keeping ourselves healthy feel impossible. 

So, how can you continue navigating a healthy lifestyle or weight loss journey when facing these challenges? Here are a few reminders to keep in mind.

#1 It’s okay to want to look and feel your best

One thing that I see in the industry often is that the perception of dieting or losing weight is often perceived in a very “black and white” way. On one end, you have people who encourage weight loss, and on the other end, you have people who are very against it.

There’s nothing wrong with wanting to lose weight because you don’t like how it looks on you. It’s okay to want to look your best, live a healthy lifestyle, and be the healthiest possible version of yourself. 

The key is to put the right energy behind it, and get into the headspace that you want to be healthy, strong, and move through the world in a comfortable, yet confident way. Continuing to advocate for yourself and what you want despite your challenges is key.

#2 Listen to your brain and your body 

We all have our days where working out or following a healthy routine is a lot harder on some days than others.

With mental and health obstacles on top of it all, it’s important as ever to listen to your mind and body and give yourself grace.

There are many influences and messages in this industry that make us feel like we need to look a certain way, or that we’re maybe not pushing ourselves as much as we should.

Remind yourself that some movement is better than none. It’s important to listen to how your brain and body are feeling, and to know your limits so you can have the strength to do more next time.

#3 Your journey is your own

No, not everyone may be going through the same struggles as you are going through, but it’s vital to remember that your journey is your own. 

Your focus should be on how you can best support your mind and body on your journey, and to not let the fear of what other people are thinking or doing take over your headspace.

No matter what you’re going through, it takes a lot of strength to continue showing up and prioritizing your mental and physical health. 

Be sure to celebrate all wins whether they be small or big. You haven’t given up yet in a circumstance that others could easily have, and that’s something to commend yourself for.

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Whenever you’re dealing with hard times, I hope that you can take the reminders above and key takeaways from this episode, and apply them to your own lives.