An accountability partner is an invaluable tool on the weight management journey. Have you ever used the help of a friend or family member to keep you on-track with your job, schoolwork, finances or other parts of your life? They can also support you in health!

The Role of an Accountability Partner in Health

Your accountability partner shouldn’t be there to act as the food police or a fitness trainer who barks orders with ferocious intensity. They are a source of support and encouragement to guide you through all stages of your journey. No matter where you are or how far you’ve come, a helping hand can always be of assistance. Research shows that people are more likely to live longer, healthier lives and reach their goals when they have a strong support system!

In fact, according to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, the psychological need for intimacy and belonging is high on the list alongside the need for accomplishment. Do you think this is a coincidence? Finding support in others keeps us grounded, focused and empowered to achieve our desires. If you desire a healthier mind and body, grab an accountability partner to help!

Working with an Accountability Partner for Success

Your journey with weight is unique because you have your own set of goals and challenges. Before an accountability partner can help you, he or she must know what these are. Communication is key. Talk about your strengths and weaknesses and lay everything out on the table. This can be an emotional and vulnerable experience, but you may find comfort in understanding. Your accountability partner should want to see you succeed!

Once you’ve established an open line of communication, lean on your accountability partner to assist you with your specific goals. Perhaps you can use him or her to help you achieve the following:

Motivation for regular, consistent exercise
Inspiration to try a new workout or fitness routine
Dedication to a whole, lean, low-calorie nutrition plan
Successful and healthy trips to the grocery store
Distractions from unhelpful cravings or behaviors
Encouragement for when times get tough

Finding Your Perfect Partner in Health and Wellness

Who should you call on to be your accountability partner? It’s an important role, after all. This decision is entirely up to you and who you feel comfortable opening up to. Perhaps it’s a close friend or family member. Maybe it’s even a psychologist or a behavioral healthcare provider. It could even be someone in a support group you follow – whether it’s in-person or online.

If you’re not sure where to turn to for help on your journey with weight and health, remember that the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC), producer of the Your Weight Matters Campaign, has a Community open to all individuals where they can connect freely with others. The OAC Community is YOUR place for quality weight/health education, support for your journey, opportunities to connect with like-minded people and so much more.