Question for Newbies or those Considering

Last week I asked what was one line of advice those who were farther out would give newbies. Now I want to ask that the other way. Newbies what's some advice you would give those who may have forgotten what it was like exactly when making the decision, just before surgery, after surgery, and when trying to get to goal. I used this forum all the time for about a year before I made the decision to have surgery. I know its a huge resource for so many people. I point people here all the time. The support, advice, and knowledge was better than I got any where else. So newbies what's one line of advice you would give the vets reading this forum and trying to help support not only other vets but anyone anywhere in the process. What's great and what's not!

My advice would be to be considerate. It is challenging and though there are forums and apps such as this one, this is still an extremely personal and unique experience.

So in other words: don't come across as a know-it-all. It can push people away and make them regret or embarrassed to ask for help.

Good points about not wanting to ask again. This forum is important to a lot of people.

is it that time already?

Im not sure I follow? I just figure why not spur communication across as many differences as we can. Maybe someone whose new or a veteran looking to help someone who is considering gastric bypass can use the information. Plus while you can search the forum its often easier to just read a string. The advice to newbies one went well. I don't think anyone got weird or angry. Then again maybe they did...LOL

Vet bashing tends to go in cycles. Didn't realise it was time again.

Don't you worry yourself though, those of us who are here every day, and have been for years (almost 13 in my case) are used to people popping up out of nowhere and popping off on those who give back every day.

Let the roast begin ...

actually I just wanted to know for my own case. I would hope no one is bashing anyone. I haven't been on for a bit but I do log in and read. I didn't think this was much different then asking vets what was one piece of advice they would give newbies. However I haven't been around for 13 years so I will believe your assessment.

Did I miss something?

1. Please be compassionate as you rid us of our ignorance! Many of us have completed lots of research and our doctor's office education so we genuinely THINK we know what we're talking about! We are not intending to be arrogant newbs!
2. There is so much conflicting advice, even from our own doctor, and when you combine that with our own very human biases and 'wishful thinking' we're going to ask what seems like totally ridiculous questions.
3. See above when we inadvertently grab hold of the "third rail" which we likely have no idea is a touchy subject.
4. What most of us are needing to hear is that this is doable; the life style change we are required to make to permanently lose the weight is one that we can not only tolerate but actually enjoy. Please point to some light at the end of this tunnel!

Thanks.. I try to remember how hard it was and be as compassionate as I can in most things. Try to offer information instead of advice.