The "We" in weight loss surgery success

You ever notice when someone notable does something extraordinary, they never take all the credit themselves when they speak?

When Obama became the nation’s first African American president, he said “we did it." Michael Phelps (a Maryland native btw), after breaking Olympic history said, “this is a great achievement for us." And this morning as I watched on the Today Show the story of a woman who attempted to swim from Cuba to Florida (but did not succeed) she said, “I’m still proud of what we accomplished."

 

Aside from being a good public relations practice, there is some truth to why they use the pronouns they use.

 

There is not one instance in history ever of someone doing something great completely by themselves. Not one.

 

Great scientific discoveries were made using foundational research of other scientists. Marathon runners use public forums, trainers, nutritionists and doctors to achieve their goals. A seven year old doing their first piano recital has a piano teacher and a mommy who makes them practice.

 

My point here? We are no different. We are seeking to achieve something great for ourselves: to reclaim our lives from obesity. We do this in the face of overwhelming biological, social and psychological challenges. It’s not something we should even begin to think we can or should do alone. We need a team.

 

What kind of team is up to your individual situation. Some natural members that come to mind are your surgery practice staff – your nutritionist, psychologist, your surgeon – along with your primary care physician. Others might be your spouse, your family, your friends.

 

And you may have to employ people along the way. I just picked up a gym buddy to help me stay motivated and push myself harder during workouts. I consider my Body Pump instructor, who tries to KILL me every week, an important part of my team. My pastor is a part of my team. You all are a part of my team.

 

Think about your team. Who is in your team? How do they/can they contribute to your success? There is absolutely nothing wrong with aligning yourself with people you feel will help get you closer to your goals. That’s not deceptive or selfish. Everyone does it and most people don’t mind being that person in your life so long as you’ve asked them first.

 

If you have needs on your team (an accountability buddy, work out partner, someone to vent to) identify what “jobs" you need done and seek out people. Most likely they are already there. But building a good team, a good support system, is one of those things you have to do to be successful at anything, not just weight loss surgery.

Well said.  So many (including you, my dear) on OH have helped me so much on my weight loss surgery journey - and on the plastic surgery board for my journey there, too.

I try to surround myself with positive people, watch positive movies/TV, listen to positive podcasts, radio, sermons, etc. 

Have a great day - Choose to have a great day.

What great thoughts for the day.  Thanks.  You are right, teams are what it is all about and I love having you guys on my team.

Great post Nik, I totally agree with what you say!  Very well said!

 What a great post!