Do you ever wonder why most old couples look alike? They look alike, they dress alike, they even talk and behave a like. Couples in a good relationship tend to mimic each other’s facial expressions and behaviours. Over time, these couples start to look alike as the body adapts. That’s a sign of a strong and stable relationship!
People tend to stick with other people who are very similar to them. There is a natural feeling of safety and belonging with like-minded individuals. The thinking here is the same as for old couples. Stick with a group for a long enough time and you will feel and act like part of that group.
For people looking to lose weight, it can be very beneficial to surround yourself with slim people. Studies conducted by the New England Journal of Medicine show spouses are likelier to be obese if their other half is obese as well. Similarly, it is likelier they will be slim if their partners are slim.
This is only natural. It is human nature to conform to our surroundings. If you are an overweight person surrounded by slim people, you will feel motivated (or perhaps ashamed) to lose weight to fit in with the group.
This is not always the case, though. There are times when an overweight spouse loses a big amount of weight. Suddenly, the partner feels jealous at all the positive attention the spouse is getting. Don’t fall for that trap.
The difference lies in harnessing motivation and putting it to good use. In some cases, the other person might feel alienated or jealous. This can trigger bouts of depression, or sometimes, turning to comfort food for support. Take a page out of the reformed spouse’s handbook and lose some of that weight yourself. Then both of you can garner that positive attention!
Strength in numbers. Joining a weight watchers club can have numerous benefits. When you share a common goal with other people, it is easier for you to support each other. That alone can push you to work harder at losing that weight. Having a personal trainer can also work wonders. Hearing someone else egg you on to do one more pushup makes you work that much harder.
