Handling Saboteurs

Well here you are, January 2nd. How's that resolution working for you two days in? Thus far, we've covered setting goals, visualizing success, preparing for possible failure, and rewarding yourself along the way. What's left is realizing that this journey is not going to happen in a bubble, and unfortunately, other people will set you off course. And again, unfortunately, some of those people will try to sabotage your goals.

We all have that friend. The one who says, "Oh my god, are you still counting calories? How much could a cookie really hurt you?" Or that person in our office who always brings the sweets to the table? It's hard to say no, right? They don't mean to sabotage you. Or do they? People who look at others' goals negatively are those who are having a difficult time setting their own. This is a fact. Do not let them get in your way.


Here are a few statements that work for me:

• Thank you for your feedback, but I'm dedicated to meeting my goal.
• Perhaps it would be best if I went on this journey on my own.
• I appreciate you.
• What goals have you set recently that I can help you achieve?

Be supportive of this person, and be supportive of yourself. Know that their attempts at sabotage are likely anger, fear, and jealousy of your progress and dedication. Let them know you care and that you appreciate their presence in your life. But know, too, that sometimes these are the people you most need to let go of in your life. No one needs chronic saboteurs in their daily routine.