Family gatherings are often the most challenging environments on a health journey. For me, my winter was the big family events—birthdays and holidays. It is exactly where I started my journey because I knew if I could survive that, I could survive anything forever.
The reality is that some environments are designed to keep you exactly where you are. When you start to change, it acts like a mirror for everyone else, and they don't always like what they see.
The Labels of the Past
When you decide to put yourself first, you might hear the same old labels: fat, worthless, or "you'll never change." You might be told you are a bad person or that you aren't part of the family because you put your headphones on or refuse to join in on the same old habits.
I want you to know that you don't have to listen to what other people say. Their words are a reflection of their own internal battles, not your potential. I created my business and this journey from a place of love for myself—because I realized that I am worth it, and so are you.
Tactical Survival Strategies
If you can't leave a toxic environment yet, or if you feel a sense of fear, obligation, or guilt, you need a survival plan:
- Rare Appearances: You don't have to show up to every single event. Protecting your peace is more important than being present at every dinner.
- The Early Exit: You are allowed to leave when you’ve had enough. You don't need a valid reason to protect your health.
- The Strategic Move: In the beginning, I had to stop going out with coworkers and friends. I even had to stay away from family events until I was strong enough to stand my ground.
Choosing Your Circle
Loving your family doesn't mean you have to be like them in body, brain, or bank account. You can love them and still choose a different path. Eventually, I reached a point where I didn't have many "friends" left, but I had myself and I had control. That is a trade I would make every single time.
You cannot heal in the same environment that made you sick. If the people around you are weighing you down, it’s time to set the boundaries that will set you free. You're worth it! Love, Liberty!
Is your environment keeping you stuck in the same old patterns? My Eat to Heal program gives you the mental and physical tools—including the Food for Fuel Journal—to build a life that you are in control of, no matter who is sitting at the table with you.
Watch my Episode "Start when it's hardest: Family Holidays"