By joining Roczen, you’ve already taken a meaningful step toward better health. While the programme provides invaluable support from healthcare professionals and online resources, having encouragement from people in your daily life can make a huge difference in your journey.

The foundation of building this support begins with open communication. Share your goals and motivations with family, friends, and colleagues. Explaining why you joined Roczen and what you hope to achieve can make a huge difference. This helps others understand your journey and makes them more likely to offer support you. Clear communication also allows you to express your needs more effectively.

Gaining support from people around you

Be specific about how others can support you. Here are some practical ways in which those around you can support your health goals:

• Respecting new habits: Ask those around you to support your eating and lifestyle changes without judgment or temptation.
• Participating together: Encourage family or friends to join you in activities like workouts, walks, or cooking healthy meals.
• Offering encouragement: Words of support can go a long way in keeping you motivated.
• Supportive home environment: Work with those you live with to stock the home with nutritious options and minimise temptations.

Including people around you in your journey can make lifestyle changes feel more inclusive. For example, try cooking nutritious meals together or organising activities together that align with your goals.

Roczen peers‍

Don’t forget about the support available through your Roczen mentor group. Sharing your challenges, wins, and experiences with others on a similar journey can provide valuable motivation. Combining the encouragement of your Roczen community with real-life support creates a strong foundation for success.

As you progress, share what you’ve learned with your circle of friends and family. Educating others not only helps them understand your choices but can also inspire them to adopt healthier habits themselves.

Navigating resistance and boundaries‍

Not everyone may immediately understand or support your new lifestyle. It’s important to politely but firmly establish boundaries with those who might unintentionally make things harder. For example:

• Explain why certain activities, like socialising at the pub or going out for certain types of food, may not align with your goals.
• Suggest alternatives, such as meeting at a coffee shop, choosing a healthier place to eat or enjoying an outdoor activity together.
• Emphasise how their support matters to your success and health, so they understand that it’s not the relationship which you are looking to change.

Celebrate success:

Celebrating your wins can really help with staying motivated. Get your support network involved in your milestones to make them feel part of your journey. Here are some simple ways to celebrate:

• Share your progress: Let your friends and family know what you’ve achieved and how far you’ve come.
• Plan a small celebration: Mark a milestone with your favourite meal, a fun activity, or a get-together that fits your goals.
• Say thank you: Show appreciation to those who’ve encouraged and supported you.
• Share what you’ve learned: Introduce your loved ones to new healthy recipes or activities you’ve enjoyed.

These moments not only help you feel proud of your progress but also let your family and friends feel more involved and supportive.

Summary:

Creating a supportive environment both online and offline is key to your success. By involving your loved ones, leveraging the Roczen community, and celebrating milestones, you’re setting yourself up for lasting health changes. As your journey continues, your efforts not only transform your life but can also inspire those around you, creating a ripple effect of health and well-being.