What If Your Partner Has Unhealthy Habits?
By Sara Butler
Spending your life with another person isn’t all puppy dogs and rainbows! When you’re trying to get healthy and make healthier choices, it can be a real drag if your partner isn’t on the same page. If you’re butting heads with your partner about how to eat or exercise, or if they’re not being supportive of the changes you’re trying to make, then here are some strategies you can use to deal with it!
Talk it Out
You’re supposed to be able to say anything to your partner, right? Well, if their unhealthy habits are throwing a wrench in your health plans, then it’s time to speak up. They may be totally unaware of the real changes you’re trying to enact or maybe they’ve not thought about how their behavior is impacting your efforts. Of course, they can never know how you feel if you don’t tell them -- so spit it out! Remind them that you’re in this together and they need to be on board and supportive.
Compromise
Compromise is important in any relationship. Your partner doesn’t have to love doing all the same things as you or enjoy eating the same foods, but they should be willing to meet you in the middle and explore foods and activities together. They don’t have to run that half marathon with you, but they should be up for a walk in the park or date where you go bowling. Agree on restaurants that at least have a few healthier options on the menu. There’s always middle ground where you two can come together.
Be Prepared
Staying healthy isn’t always going to be easy. You’re going to run into roadblocks along the way, like that cream-filled pastry your partner just ate in front of you. Some significant others may try to guilt their partners into eating a food or staying home instead of working out. If you anticipate that these things are going to come your way, then you can plan for them. As long as you don’t allow yourself to get caught off guard, then you can persevere.
Look for Other Support
Your partner is probably one of your best friends, but it’s OK to seek support outside of your relationship too. If you’re not getting what you need, then call up your BFF and tell them what you’re doing and what you need to feel supported. You’re not alone in your health journey!
Health is something that you will strive for your whole life. Whether or not your partner is on board, it's important to find the middle ground so you can continue to work toward a healthier lifestyle!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Monroe, La.