I am proud to reach out to others, rather than relying on food for comfort, because I know this is sign that I am growing and maturing. I am not ashamed that I need comfort at times and I am a healthier person because I have learned how to ask for help.

I am learning to tune into my feelings so I can view them as a source of life and creativity. I do not run from my feelings or hide behind food. While facing my feelings head on is difficult, I am proud of myself that I have embraced this challenge.

My need for support in the process of losing weight is not a weakness. Nearly every great endeavor in life requires a team of some sort. Why should my weight loss be any different?

When I ask for help, I show that I am grounded in reality. I am no longer hiding behind food and I am proud of this fact.

I will not expect others to look down on me for my struggles. No one is perfect! Everyone has their own set of challenges. When I am open to sharing my own challenges with others, I create a pathway that allows them to share their struggles with me. In this way, we all benefit.

Reaching beyond food and opening myself up to people rewards me, not only in my appearance, but even more importantly in the ever-deepening relationships I am developing with those who care about me.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. In what circumstances do I tend to hide behind food?
2. Do I avoid opening up to people when I am in need?
3. Who could I approach the next time I need support in my weight loss efforts?