Motivational Letters

Dealing with Change

Each day I’m amazed at the transformations I witness in patients – both physical and psychological.  Some people are in the process of transformation, while others are embarking on the journey of transformation.  Regardless of what part of the process we’re in, as we change our lifestyle habits we notice change not only in our physical self but in our psychological self as well.  It can be helpful to prepare ourselves for the future; that is, prepare ourselves for the repercussions that future changes can have, both positive and negative.  The source for this letter is a wonderful book written by Eda LeShan: Winning the Losing Battle.  LeShan herself went through a significant process of change through weight loss, and she looks at weight loss from the perspective of “psychological preparedness.” Following are some concepts that might be important to explore as you embark on a lifestyle change.

Many people see weight loss as the answer to all their problems and the key to happiness.  However, the new “thinner self” can create a whole new set of challenges.  It is important to be prepared and recognize the issues that can arise with weight loss rather than becoming a stranger in our new bodies.

Changing self-image can be difficult for many of us.  Our self-image affects how we feel and therefore affects all aspects of our lives.  The way we look affects who we are.  When we suddenly go from heavier to lighter we can lose our sense of self.  Old feelings can take new forms as our self-image changes.

We need to be prepared to recognize that more than our physical appearance and size will change.  On a very basic level we are our bodies, and a change can cause a disruption that can even be terrifying.  Loss of sense of identity requires us to re-adjust.  We need to be prepared that this is a normal process.

When we are in our new bodies, we not only look different, we also might experience physical changes such as:

- Feeling colder
- Seeing bones and muscles we hadn’t noticed before
- Different styles of clothes
- Different sizes of clothes
- Taking up less space such as in an airplane seat
- Bending easier
- Walking faster

In addition, psychological and personality changes may also happen:

- People treat us differently
- We may behave differently
- We may draw attention to ourselves
- We may go through a period of mourning for our former self

Some people have spent years hiding in their heavier body as it becomes a safe place to be.

Changes are inevitable and there will be a period of adjustment.  There is a possibility of regaining weight when we have not taken the time to say “goodbye” to our heavier selves.  While our old selves are safe and familiar, our new selves can be both wonderful and frightening.  Recognizing fear as a part of weight loss is an important issue to explore.  Therefore, being prepared to deal with all aspects of how our lives may change is essential. 

There are many ways to manage the process of weight loss, and I usually touch on subjects such as: keeping a positive attitude, getting back on track, saboteurs, etc…however. it is really helpful to explore the outcome of these positive changes.  Being prepared psychologically will help keep the process going, and will also allow you to maintain your weight loss long-term.  Take the time to write down some of the changes you’ve already experienced, or some of the changes you’re anticipating as time goes on.  Sometimes journaling our thoughts can help us gain perspective.  No matter what, remind yourself why you are making these healthy changes. Expect that you’ll face challenges along the way, and explore the psychological outcomes of this process.  Never give up on moving forward towards your goals.

Dr. Doug