Our baby daughter is starting solids. (And it’s a mess)
We are introducing one food at a time for now.
But even at this early stage, eating is not just about nutrition for her.
She watches us closely when we eat.
She wants to imitate us and join the social ritual of dining together.
we can see she wants to connect and feel part of the family.
This is one of the most important lessons:
Your food, your diet, your workouts— None of it exists outside of relationships.
Our health is not isolated.
And while it is our decision about what to eat, how to move, and how to care for ourselves, the reality is complex and interconnected.
Our health behaviors and choices are embedded in our social contexts and relationships.
How to Value Relationships and Health
Be careful not to make this about You vs Others.
You might think, “I have good health habits, not like _____.” (fill this in with the first thing that comes to your mind)
It’s too simple to make this either-or.
Because the truth is both are important to us as people. We want to take care of our health AND we want to have supportive meaningful relationships.
And while it’s common to find our personal health and diet goals butt heads with what the people around us are doing, there’s more to it than that.
Remember, health and social connection aren’t inherently at odds.
It is possible to honor both.
The Problem: Health Conversations Tend to Be Judgment Loaded
This is what makes it so hard.
Health conversations always have a subtext of judgment, whether you like it or not.
When you say “I’m trying to eat healthier,” someone else might interpret it as “You think my diet is unhealthy.”
Even if you don’t mean it, people will take it this way.
I would love for health conversations to be judgment-free, but we’re not there yet.
Discussions about health, diet, exercise, and lifestyle choices are often filled with criticism, comparison, and judgment, even if unintended.
When we share our health goals or changes, others may feel defensive or judged, assuming it’s a commentary on their choices.
Society has a long way to go in making health a neutral topic that can be discussed without judgments.
Social Support can 10x Your Health Habits
But the truth is this:
The social environment strongly influences our health behaviors.
Surrounding yourself with people who prioritize healthy eating and active lifestyles makes it easier to make nutritious choices and stay motivated.
Seeing others enjoy balanced meals and exercise can inspire you to do the same.
Social connections provide accountability and support.
When we share our health goals, others can offer encouragement and practical tips.
Having a workout buddy or a friend to swap healthy recipes with makes the journey more enjoyable and sustainable.
Social norms work in our favor when we cultivate a culture of wellness.
Health and Relationships are Important: Treat them That Way
Being open, honest, and non-judgmental helps everyone choose better health.
Making healthy choices in a social context requires patience, self-awareness, and open conversations.
The goal is to foster well-being in our communities.
When we see health as a shared value and responsibility, we can uplift each other and make lasting positive changes.
Reflect on how social influences shape your health choices.