Hear what is not said.

  Weight Loss Surgery Support:
Daily Inspiration for April 18, 2010 Katie Jay,MSW

Hear what is not said. 

Our loved ones want to be supportive, but may hesitate at times to speak their minds. Observe body language and behavior cues to learn what others are thinking. They may have unspoken questions, concerns, or comments. Even coworkers may not want to upset your "fragile" frame of mind by saying or doing anything "wrong."  

Your surgery and inconsistent eating habits may cause others to feel as though they are walking on egg shells. You may think everyone has adjusted to your new lifestyle, but they may just be acting that way to please you. Continue to open lines of communication with your spouse, children, and co-workers so that they are clear about boundaries--both theirs and yours.  

Action for the day: Spend some time today thinking about how your WLS journey affects those around you. Do you need to communicate better with your family, friends, and co-workers? What needs to be said that you haven't said? What do others need you to understand, even if they can't find the words to tell you?  
© 2010, National Association for Weight Loss Surgery. All rights reserved. Daily Inspirations are provided by the National Association for Weight Loss Surgery. Get our free report,  How to Regain-Proof Your Weight Loss Surgery at www.nawls.com.

 

WOW!! This is good. I was just talking about this with a friend of mine. I thought I had done a good job before surgery explaining my needs to the family members that are near and doing life with me. The thing is... you don't know what you will need until you are experiencing life as a WLS person. I had no idea that the first meal that they have (while I am on liquids) would NOT bother me.. but  I get mad as HECK when they go back for seconds. Isn't that crazy. I too encourage everyone to not only talk before WLS but right after, later after and from NOW ON. When you change have another conversation!!