Living in an apartment with people who don’t share my health goals can come with it’s challenges. It’s one thing to set personal wellness intentions, but it’s another thing entirely to uphold them when you’re surrounded by people who aren’t on the same path. This week, for example, there’s a birthday coming up, and I genuinely want to join the celebration. But being part of these gatherings often means indulging in foods that don’t exactly align with my goals, which is where that all-too-familiar peer pressure sneaks in. Today , I gave in and purchased a hamburger with a loved one because they were hungry and I wasn’t going to hear the last of it until we went to a nearby restaurant. If I didn’t buy anything than they wouldn’t have eaten so that’s why I brought the additional burger. It’s frustrating and, honestly, a little exhausting at times.
Lately, I’ve come to understand the saying, “You are who you hang around” or that our future selves often reflect the influence of the company we keep. This doesn’t mean we have to say goodbye to our loved ones who aren’t on a similar path; rather, it’s about setting boundaries and respecting our own journey. It’s possible to stay connected without letting their choices derail our personal goals.
Sometimes, growing apart in certain areas doesn’t mean a relationship ends; it simply means we’re finding alignment with people who share similar priorities. With this understanding, I’m learning that I can still show up for my loved ones occasionally , and enjoy their company, and celebrate their milestones without letting go of my own health goals. Setting these boundaries not only keeps me on track but also allows me to maintain the connections I value.
In the end, it’s all about creating space for both growth and companionship. It’s not always easy, but these moments remind me that staying true to my path doesn’t mean leaving anyone behind—it simply means honoring my needs while remaining present in the lives of those I care about and sometimes that may mean looking for a more suitable space. Have you ever had this issue with loved ones who just don’t seem to understand or respect your health goals? If so, how do you cope with that?