What is a Slimming World Visitor?

What is a Slimming World Visitor?

One of the core values of Slimming World is that each consultant should always be on the lookout for new members. The new members will ensure that the consultants’ group will continue to grow, and their Slimming World Franchise business will succeed. Therefore, all consultants will continually ask members to bring visitors along. The title often referred to here is BAMGAWF – or Bring A Member, Get A Week Free – it’s easier to say Slimming World Visitor.

What isn’t commonly known is that anyone who is thinking of becoming a member has the opportunity to come to the group, sit and listen to the ‘New Member Talk’ where the plan is explained (for those unsure of the plan, you can find an explanation here), stay for a session of Image Therapy, (Image Therapy is described here) and then make an informed decision about joining a Slimming World group. Significantly, visitors are not pressured to commit to a membership. I know it can be intimidating when you first walk into a new group of people. However, I would advise anyone to consider joining a group to listen to the New Member Talk and Image Therapy and then decide. Every consultant aims to create a welcoming and understanding environment, allowing individuals to make choices that best suit their weight loss journey.

Let’s be honest about Slimming World Visitors.

When anyone embarks on a weight loss journey, their decision is massive. It signifies a desire for change, a commitment to adopting a healthier lifestyle and prioritising their health and well-being. They have decided to change their appearance, want to make some lifestyle changes and prioritise their health. This can be a big decision.

It is crucial to decide which weight loss programme to choose. There are many eating plans out there. Some are fads, some are just strange and others just bonkers. Then there are the sensible ones, who you know have a track record of working for people. Each plan will have their fans and their haters. It is down to everyone to make up their own mind.

Here’s the secret to weight loss.

I will say that if you want to lose weight, you must have a calorie deficit.

A fundamental principle underpins any successful weight loss plan – the concept of a calorie deficit. However, achieving a calorie deficit means spending more calories than you consume, creating a gap between the energy your body uses and the energy it receives from food. This is the cornerstone of every weight programme.

Now, you might wonder why a calorie deficit is so crucial. Allow me to be side-tracked for a few minutes and explain its significance (for a more comprehensive understanding, read this article).

In brief

Calories are units of energy that come from the foods and beverages we consume. Our bodies use this energy for various functions, from basic physiological processes like breathing and digestion to more energy-intensive activities like physical exercise. Everyone has a specific number of calories to maintain their current weight, known as their maintenance calories, BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate).

When you consume more calories than your body spends, this excess is stored as fat, leading to weight gain. Alternatively, when you consume fewer calories than your body requires, you create a calorie deficit, which triggers your body to use its stored fat for energy, ultimately resulting in loss.

What is important is how you are going to achieve that calorie deficit. For me, it is by joining Slimming World and getting help and support from my consultant and friends in the group. Yes, it’s complex, and sometimes there is a bit of FOMO (fear of missing out). However, it works for me.

Why be a Slimming World Visitor

It’s simple: meet the consultant at any Slimming World session. If you don’t like the consultant or feel that the consultant is not for you, then you won’t get the full advantage of the group. Meet the members. Are they welcoming and friendly? I have been to groups where the consultant dismisses other Slimming World visitors, which is so sad. They should welcome everyone equally. They do not know who you know and why you are visiting the group (you can visit any group to weigh in the country if you cannot attend your own group). I have also been to groups where the consultant is welcoming, but the group is so cliquey I felt uncomfortable.

Slimming World Visitor

Therefore, it is essential to meet the group and try. Maybe Slimming World is not for you. That is fine, but you won’t know that until you try. This plan fits in with me as I refuse to change everything about my eating, but I will be happy to make a few changes to lose weight. Weight loss is essential and a top priority for me sometimes! But it’s not my life. I want to go to a group where I can laugh and feel passionate about myself and my weight loss when I leave the group. Nevertheless, I also want a group where I can feel part of the team. I am on my group’s social team. (for a full understanding of the role of the social team, read this article).

Members bringing a Slimming World Visitor get rewarded.

For members, there is an advantage of bringing a slimming world visitor. At certain times of the year, Slimming World makes an offer to members to bring visitors along. During this promotional period, if a member gets a visitor to Slimming World and becomes a member, the original member is entitled to a week’s free membership. If a member brings along 6 new members, then that is 6 weeks free. This is great for the members but not so good for the consultant. The consultant only gets paid for the number of paying members in the group. If you are a lucky member with a week’s free membership, the consultant will make no commission from your attendance.

A Consultant View of Slimming World Visitors

As many of you may know, my friend is the consultant of the group I attend, and I get most of my information from her and watching the group. My friend loves to have new members. She is so cheerful and pleased to give her members a free session. She often overrides back membership fees and knows times are hard for everyone. The only issue is that her takings are very low. If there is a room of 40 people and only 30 are paying, she often goes home with an income below minimum wage. Check out this article for how much a Slimming World Consultant earns. It’s just not very much.

My Slimming World Journey

As for my Slimming World journey, I remain committed and motivated, striving to adhere to the plan. My major challenge lies in the evening, mainly between 7 pm and 9 pm. I diligently maintain a balanced approach to my meals throughout the day, but the evenings are tricky. To curb my cravings, I’ve incorporated a nightly ritual of enjoying a hot chocolate and adding a dash of Bailey’s for that extra kick. It adds up to four syns but is a delightful and worthwhile indulgence.

My goal for the week is to achieve a one-pound loss, although I initially aspired to shed two pounds. Weight loss remains a priority for me, albeit not an all-consuming one. I seek a balance, allowing me to take part in a group where laughter is common. I aim for a sense of passion for self-improvement that accompanies me after each group session. Furthermore, I appreciate the importance of feeling like part of a team and actively engaging as a social team member within my group. You can find more information about the social team here.

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Empowering a successful weight loss journey with Image Therapy.

Empowering a successful weight loss journey with Image Therapy.

Unveiling the Power of IMAGE Therapy on the Slimming World Journey”

When it comes to embarking on a transformative weight loss journey, Slimming World stands out as a beacon of hope and empowerment. I genuinely believe this. After all, I have lost four and a half stone with them. Their weight loss program comprises a three-step approach for a healthier and happier you. To refresh your memory, these three steps are Food Optimizing, Body Magic, and the focus of my article today, IMAGE Therapy.

IMAGE Therapy stands for Individual Motivation and Group Experience. It is the cornerstone of Slimming World’s methodology. It is a blend of motivation, support, and group dynamics, offering participants a holistic approach to health and well-being. But before we delve into the intricacies of IMAGE Therapy, let’s take a quick look at the first two steps on the Slimming World journey. If you want more information, check out this article here.

Step 1: Food Optimising

Food Optimising is the cornerstone of Slimming World’s approach to weight loss. This step is about learning to make healthier food choices while enjoying delicious meals. It’s about creating informed decisions when it comes to food. Food Optimising encourages you to fill your plate with Free Foods, which can be consumed freely without weighing or measuring, but also introduces the subject of portion control. Find out more in this article. These foods are low energy (calories) but have filling power. They make you feel fuller for longer. They also provide essential nutrients without packing on the pounds. With Food Optimising, you’ll discover how to prepare tasty, satisfying meals that are good for your waistline and taste buds.

Step 2: Body Magic

Body Magic is the second step, focusing on the role of physical activity in your weight loss journey. Slimming World believes that exercise is an important aspect of a healthy lifestyle. But the key is not to become an Olympic athlete or to run a marathon; instead, it’s about incorporating moderate and enjoyable activities that elevate your heart rate and promote general well-being. The emphasis here is on making exercise an enjoyable and sustainable habit. Regular physical activity helps you burn calories, improve your fitness, and increase your overall well-being.

Other Body Magic Benefits

But it’s not just about the numbers on the scale. Exercise offers numerous health benefits that extend far beyond weight loss. It can stave off illnesses, boost your mood, and enhance your quality of life. The key is to find an activity you genuinely enjoy, a brisk walk, dancing, swimming, or any other form of exercise. Yes, even sex, as long as you are participating for a minimum of 15 minutes. By choosing something you love, you’re more likely to stick with it, creating a long-lasting, healthier lifestyle.

Now, let’s shift our focus to the heart of Slimming World’s transformative process:

Step 3: IMAGE Therapy

IMAGE Therapy is where the magic happens, bringing a powerful combination of motivation and group support. It’s about connecting with like-minded individuals who share similar goals and ambitions. Here, we become part of a community of individuals committed to their health and happiness.

The Key Elements of IMAGE Therapy

Individual: This is where your consultant, in my case my friend, encourages and supports each member to achieve our weekly, monthly and yearly weight loss goals. My friends in the group are also there to help us and encourage us for the week ahead.

Motivation: At the core of IMAGE Therapy is motivation. These sessions provide a safe and encouraging environment to discuss our challenges, share our successes, and renew our commitment to our weight loss journey. The consultant and group members become our support pillars, providing inspiration and encouragement to help us stay on track.

Group Experience: The group experience within IMAGE Therapy offers a wealth of perspectives, tips, and stories. It’s an opportunity to learn from other members. To gain fresh insights into our journey and receive guidance from those who’ve walked a similar path. The sense of belonging and camaraderie that develops in these sessions is invaluable.

Another E, from Me, Emotional Well-being with Image Therapy

IMAGE Therapy doesn’t just focus on the physical aspect of weight loss; it also emphasises emotional well-being. Understanding the emotional connections to our eating habits, triggers, and relationship with food. It’s about fostering a positive and healthy attitude towards food and ourselves.

Accountability with Image Therapy

Slimming World meets weekly, and regular group meetings are a built-in accountability system. Knowing that a group is waiting for you creates a sense of responsibility to stay on course. The collective journey creates a shared sense of accomplishment and progress.

Image Therapy with Slimming World

Foremost, IMAGE Therapy is more than just a conventional support group; it is a nurturing environment that encourages individuals to explore their inner motivations and aspirations. Within the safe space of IMAGE Therapy sessions, participants uncover the root causes of their relationship with food and weight, addressing the psychological and emotional aspects of their journey. The group experience fosters community and shared understanding, enabling members to draw strength from each other’s experiences and triumphs.

As an integral part of Slimming World’s three-step program, IMAGE Therapy offers a holistic approach to weight loss and health improvement. It’s about empowering individuals to take control of their lives, cultivate a supportive community, and achieve their goals. Slimming World understands that a healthy lifestyle is not just about the food you eat or your exercise; it’s about finding balance, motivation, and lasting support on your journey to a happier, healthier you.

So, if you’re considering a weight loss program that goes beyond the scale and truly focuses on your well-being, IMAGE Therapy and Slimming World’s three-step approach might be the programme you’ve been looking for. It has been for me. It’s not just about losing weight; it’s about gaining a life filled with health, happiness, and community support.

In weight management and personal development, IMAGE Therapy is a guiding light, illuminating the path toward a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle. It’s a testament to the profound impact of support, understanding, and holistic well-being on one’s journey towards self-discovery and sustainable weight loss. Through the synergy of community support, emotional empowerment, and a renewed focus on physical activity, Slimming World’s IMAGE Therapy fosters a profound transformation that transcends mere weight loss, heralding a renewed sense of vitality and well-being for all who embark on this life-changing journey. It’s not just the talkie bit at the end!

How am I doing?

I have to be honest. Not so good. I have had a few things going on in my business and at home and ran to the cupboard for support. This only lasts for 48 hours. However, I decided to read some of my articles and feel inspired to stick to the plan and move forward. I desperately want to get to my goal weight. I need to remind myself that I can do it. I’ve done it before. Even rereading the above has given me the passion to refocus.

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Slimming World and the Social Team

Slimming World and the Social Team

Today, I want to discuss how Slimming World Group operates and why members are essential. It’s all to do with the Slimming World Social Team.

What can I say about the wonders that are the Social Team? They are just magnificent, I know because I have been a member of the Slimming World Social Team for about four years in different groups. Without our care and dedication, any Slimming World Group would be a disaster. I cannot overstate the incredible value and indispensable role played by the Social Team of Slimming World groups. Their dedication and unwavering commitment to the success of each Slimming World Group are nothing short of magnificent. These unsung heroes are the glue that holds the group together, and with their care and tireless efforts, any Slimming World gathering would undoubtedly be a disaster. Like I said, four years as an unsung hero.

Consultants are not Magicians

Imagine if the Consultant had to perform all these roles; it would take ages, and people wouldn’t stay. The indispensable person handles payments, ensuring that administrative matters run smoothly (me). Another dedicated individual diligently tracks the weight progress of members, providing crucial support and motivation. In addition, there’s often someone responsible for managing the shop, ensuring members have access to the resources they need to succeed on their weight loss journey. You might find the indispensable tea and coffee maestro in larger groups who energise everyone.

Slimming World Social Team

Yet, the responsibilities of the Social Team extend far beyond these essential roles. The unsung champions arrive early to help set up the meeting room and stay late to ensure everything is put away neatly. It’s a collaborative effort transforming each meeting into a warm, welcoming, and organised environment.

Slimming World Social Team Members

Even more remarkable is that the Social Team members do all this voluntarily, without monetary compensation. Instead, their rewards come in the form of praise from the Consultant and the eternal gratitude of all group members. Their selflessness is a testament to their genuine desire to support and uplift the Slimming World community.

It’s heart warming to know that some Slimming World Consultants go above and beyond to express their appreciation for the Social Team’s hard work. Some Consultants generously cover the membership fees of these dedicated individuals, ensuring they can fully participate in the program themselves. Others take the time to celebrate birthdays and holidays, showering the Social Team with thoughtful gifts and gestures of kindness. Consultants find various ways to say “thank you” to these remarkable individuals, recognising their invaluable role in the group’s success.

Physically Demanding

Moreover, it’s essential to acknowledge the physical demands that the Slimming World Social Team members often face. Many Slimming World Consultants are a bit older, and lifting tables and chairs can be physically taxing. The effort they put into creating a comfortable and inviting meeting space is a labour of love, and they certainly get a workout while doing so.

Slimming World Social Team

To all the members of the Social Team, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks and admiration. We are nothing short of marvellous, and our contributions make each Slimming World Group a welcoming and supportive community. Our dedication and selflessness are the cornerstones of success, and the group wouldn’t be the same without us. Our efforts transform Slimming World from a weight loss program into a family where everyone supports and uplifts one another on the journey toward better health and well-being. Thank us for being the unsung heroes who make it all possible.

I humbly doff my cap!

My Reflections on My Slimming World Journey This Week

Today was my group, and I must admit, it wasn’t quite the weigh-in result I hoped for. I put on half a pound.

To put things in perspective, when I weighed myself earlier in the week, my scales showed a gain of almost two pounds. But you know what? The magic of our Slimming World group is that it offers a true and honest reflection of our progress. So here it is, in all its unfiltered glory: a half-pound gain. It stings a bit, but it’s just a blip on the radar of my overall weight loss journey.

This week, I aimed to lose three pounds and reach my target. Well, life had other plans, it seems. And that’s perfectly okay. Weight loss is not always a linear journey. It’s filled with ups, downs, and plateaus, but that makes it real.

Now, here’s where things got a bit interesting. During our group meeting, I had a blast from the past when an old networking colleague recognised me. Of all places at Slimming World. We started chatting and are making arrangements to meet up for a coffee. Isn’t it funny how life surprises you sometimes?

Excuse Me in Week Three

As Image Therapy began, I had to excuse myself as a client needed my help urgently, and my phone was ringing off the hook. I’m sure many of you can relate to the juggling act we perform between work, family, and personal goals. We all have bills to pay and responsibilities to meet; sometimes, life’s interruptions are inevitable.

I’m committed to staying on course with my Slimming World journey. Life will throw its curveballs, but how we navigate them truly matters. Slimming World has helped me lose over 4 and a half stone. It’s been there through all the ups and downs, providing support, encouragement, and a safe space to share my experiences.

So, as I reflect on this week’s weigh-in, I remind myself that progress is not always measured by the number on the scale. It’s about the choices we make, the lessons we learn, and the determination to keep moving forward, no matter what life throws our way. Although this journey would have been nicer if I was a pound lighter or had a maintain. I am just like everyone else and want to lose that last 10 pounds. I want to look in the mirror and say what I did. Didn’t I do well? I want to stand up before my members to say, I did it, so can you. We are a team, and together, no one can stop us.

Next week is a new week, so come back for more updates on my Slimming World adventure, and remember, we’re in this together! Let’s embrace the journey, celebrate the victories, and learn from the setbacks. See how positive I am here. I will take this with me into next week and into my groups. We will be rock stars.

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Slimming World and the Banana Debate

Slimming World and the Banana Debate

The Banana Debate is one of the many arrows often thrown at Slimming World. I have been putting this off as it annoys me beyond despair. So, let’s start at the beginning. On day one (link here), we discussed what Slimming World is and what the plan is all about. I introduced how the plan works, what foods are, and how Slimming World categorise them. I comprehensively explained the plan without breaking any rules or regulations. In this post, I am going to do the same thing. I will be genuine and honest and never sugar-coat what I think or say here. This is my understanding of the Slimming World plan and how it has been explained.

The Arrow Brigade with Slimming World and the Banana Debate

I can’t think of another way to phrase the attacks Slimming World gets. The Arrow Brigade is my chosen term. It’s aimed at those who don’t enjoy Slimming World and always discuss bananas. To be fair, there are so many other things they could attack Slimming World on, but this issue is ridiculous and shows that they do not understand what Slimming World is trying to say. From my research, the Arrow Brigade have also been members of Slimming World and have lost a lot of weight. Some have put the weight back on, in which case they didn’t work the plan. They went on a DIET. Those who kept most of their weight off are now on a different DIET or selling their nutritional programme or gym/workout plans.

Let’s begin

Within the eating plan of Slimming World, you eat whatever you want. And I mean whatever you want. NO foods are banned. No foods are demonised. Despite what the new nutrition coaches selling their own nutritional or fitness classes.

If you ask any slimming World Consultant, they will all tell you that eating a fresh banana is one of our free foods. No one disagrees with that. Go and enjoy your banana. Now, once you manipulate that banana, by this, we mean mashing it with a fork. It becomes a syn. But hold on, there is more to this than meets the eye, so let me begin.

Portion Control

Those same 20/30 something will also tell you that Slimming World doesn’t teach portion control. The Banana debate is the perfect example of this. Portion Control is monitoring the amount of a particular type of food that you eat. A Portion generally is much smaller than you would think. A whole banana is a perfect portion of a fruit, just like a fresh orange or an apple.

When you mash a banana, you reduce the size of the banana visual. Additionally, instead of taking a few minutes to eat a whole fresh banana, when it is mashed, the time you take to eat that banana is seconds. This is where it gets a little technical, and I need to introduce you to two hormones: Leptin and Ghrelin.

Leptin – Slimming World and the Banana

Eating a fresh banana releases the hormone Leptin.

“Leptin is a hormone your adipose tissue (body fat) releases that helps your body maintain your normal weight on a long-term basis. It does this by regulating hunger by providing the sensation of satiety (feeling full). Quote from the National Library of Medicine

Leptin’s main function is to help regulate the long-term balance between your body’s food intake and energy use (expenditure). Leptin helps inhibit (prevent) hunger and regulates energy balance so that your body doesn’t trigger a hunger response when it doesn’t need energy (calories).

Ghrelin – Slimming World and the Banana

The other hormone you should know is Leptin, opposite, Ghrelin.

‘Ghrelin is a multifaceted gut hormone which activates its receptor, growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R). Ghrelin’s hallmark functions are its stimulatory effects on food intake, fat deposition and growth hormone release. Ghrelin is famously known as the “hunger hormone”. Quote from the National Library of Medicine

In short, Leptin tells you that you are full so that you should stop eating, and Ghrelin tells you that you are still hungry. 

Let’s get back to Slimming World and the banana debate. If you eat a fresh banana, your body releases Leptin, and one banana can be satisfying. If you mash a banana, you eat it in seconds. Your body doesn’t release Leptin but will still have Ghrelin running around telling you-you are hungry. As a result, you could potentially eat two, three, or even four bananas in one sitting.

Slimming World and the Banana

Stated another way, one medium banana has 96 calories. If you have two or three bananas because one mashed banana has not satisfied your hunger, you are eating 288 calories. I want to remind you of our discussion about calories in this blog (link here).

Having said the above, if you decide to have a banana sandwich and mash the banana up to go between your two slices of bread or in a wrap, you wouldn’t syn that banana as you only have one banana, portion control. You have to have some common sense about this.

To the 20/30 something’s, if you didn’t understand this in your group, then I would suggest that you didn’t understand the philosophy of Slimming World, you didn’t take the time to talk to your consultant about why, and your misunderstanding is your own and not everyone else.

Back to me Now

So, leaving the Slimming World and the banana debate behind, how am I going with my plan? I am still looking forward to my weigh-ins. I have tried to stick to the plan as best as possible, but honestly, I haven’t been as good as I should have been. My addiction is sugar. If it’s in chocolate, cake or Haribo. I’m there. I wish it wasn’t, but I am trying to control it. I have eaten so much fruit this week to get that sugar fix, and I feel slightly bloated.

I enjoy the plan and love it when I have planned my meals and know I don’t have to think about food all the time. Work has been running away with me this week, so some of my lunches have been grab-and-go. This week, I will tell the truth.

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Slimming World Member dislikes her group – but…

Slimming World Member dislikes her group – but…

As an organisation, Slimming World is passionate about its members. They want each member to feel special, supported, and welcomed. All the consultants I have met also feel the same way. They want their members to have a wonderful time when in the group. Slimming World Consultants want their members to achieve their target and have the body they dream of. This is why I was shocked when I met a Slimming World Member dislikes her group.

Uphill struggle when a Slimming World Member dislikes her group

I was helping my friend in a different group this week. This meant I got up at 5 a.m. on a Saturday after working 65 hours at my regular job and helped her run this cover group. The drive was about 20 miles, in the next town, as a local group had lost their regular consultant a few months ago. All the consultants in the area are rallying around to help support the members to ensure they still have a group to go to. To help members stay focused on their weight loss journey and offer guidance.

Don’t get me wrong, I am not after praise. I offered to help my friend as she helps me in so many other ways. And she is a friend and that’s what friends do.

It’s an early start to support Members

Normally, when you arrive at a venue, the Social Team will usually help the covering consultant set up and pack things away. It makes life so much easier, and the volunteers on the Social Team are indeed sent from heaven for their help and support. Without them, the group would not run as smoothly. That’s me, sent from heaven!

With this group, as it is such an early start, the doors open at 8 a.m., means the Slimming World Consultant needs to be there at 7 a.m. to set up. We did all the heavy lifting together. We got 30 chairs, tables, the kit, set up the kitchen and prepared the hall for a warm welcome. The first member arrived at about 7:50 a.m. To be fair, she did help set up the remaining chairs and signs.

This was a double session, meaning the first group would arrive at 8 a.m. and the next at 9:30 a.m.

Members in the First group were a dream. They laughed and enjoyed the meeting, and four members came up after the group to thank my friend and said they now feel inspired and are looking forward to the week ahead. I was slightly chuffed for her and gave her a pat on the back. I won’t repeat what she said to me, but I am sure you can guess.

It’s the scale’s fault

The second group of members arrived, and the first few ladies were lovely. They came in and weighed. Chatted and welcomed us to their group. One lady sat at the weigh station and took care of all the weighs, and we had a good chat. Then things went downhill. One member arrived and just kicked off. She got on the scales, promptly got off, and said,

‘The scales are wrong again; I have been perfect on plan, and they are showing I have put on 3 pounds. That’s not right. I am fed up with coming to the group with different consultants who bring different scales each week. They put them in different places, and they always weigh differently. At home, I lost this week.

She continued:

‘It’s not what I pay my money for, and quite frankly, I want a better consultant’.

I have to be honest; that floored me for a few seconds. I had said hello to her moments before and she was very pleasant. This reaction was unexpected and a little over the top. I felt so bad for my friend. She smiled and tried to engage her in conversation about her week and what she had done. She wasn’t having any of it.

I over heard one of the other ladies in the group approached her, as I was dealing with another member and asked what she meant by that, and she replied that it’s not fair that we get different consultants all the time, and the scales are different each time. This knight in shining armour suggested that she think about what she has just said and that maybe she should reword her comments. She then changed what she said to the real meaning of her statement.

I am fed up with coming to the group and not being supported by a permanent Slimming World Consultant.

Slimming World Member dislikes her group and I understand why

I understand this. If it were me, I would be upset as a member if I had different consultants each week. This showed me that a Slimming World group is more than just a consultant standing up in front of everyone, asking how they are. It’s about creating a community. A place of safety where we can discuss our issues. This lady felt overwhelmed by the number displayed on the scale, but in reality, she was overwhelmed by the situation. My friend works so hard to ensure all her group members are heard all the time.

Life is hard, and what she is looking for is stability. This lady wants a place where she can go to, and be herself, where she is not a wife, a mother, a sister, or a daughter. She is an individual, and she wants to be recognised for her successes and wins. If she does put on weight, she wants to discuss it with a friend who won’t judge her and will support her. This is what a Slimming World group is all about. There is never any judgement within group. It is a place to be yourself; if you have a bad week, you can tell everyone they will be there for you.

When she left the group, she was smiling and accepted some tools my friend gave her. She had a plan in place and was looking forward to the week. I will see her next week if she turns up.

A New Consultant

There was also a discussion in the group about not having a permanent consultant, and she needed to hear an explanation from my friend, a Slimming World representative. She wanted to hear that she understood her frustrations and that although she was a good consultant, my friend is not her consultant. Which makes a massive difference. This group will get their consultant in a few weeks. She is currently on her training courses with Slimming World, so this matter shouldn’t arise again.

When we got in the car, I asked her about the situation; she was kind to the woman. She said that she was just frustrated with her weight increase, had gone off plan and was hitting out at the nearest obstacle. In this case, it was her, and she doesn’t take it personally.


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Slimming World for Free with the NHS: Health, Well-being

Slimming World for Free with the NHS: Health, Well-being

Slimming World Collaboration with the NHS: Health, Well-being, and Slimming World for Free

One of the most remarkable features of Slimming World, which has long resonated with me and is one reason I returned to Slimming World, is its collaboration with the National Health Service (NHS). These two organisations offer a cost-effective weight loss program to those who need and want to lose weight. This incredible initiative, known as “Slimming World on Referral” (SWOR), offers the opportunity to those who satisfy the criteria, usually a recommendation from their doctors to lose some weight, to get 12 weeks of Slimming World for free. You read that correctly you can join your local Slimming World group for free.

The SWOR program presents a 12-week free membership with Slimming World, available to individuals across the United Kingdom. During these 12 weeks, participants can potentially achieve a remarkable transformation, with the potential to lose up to 10% of their body weight when they actively follow the plan (depending on your starting weight).

How you can access Slimming World for Free

To access the Slimming World for free program, you only need a referral from your local doctor’s. Alternatively a designated organisation within your county. This ensures that your weight loss journey is well-suited to your specific health goals and requirements. The initial assessment may involve questions about your weight, health status, and aspirations for weight loss.

In some areas of the country, you can bypass the doctor’s Surgery and go directly to the umbrella organisation running the SWOR programme on behalf of the NHS and Slimming World. (Just type in Slimming World for free and your county in Google or any other browser). You will be issued a passcode once you have met the criteria.

This unique and forward-thinking collaboration between the NHS and Slimming World stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of addressing weight-related health concerns. It offers an exemplary model for enhancing overall well-being through personalised weight management programs, nurturing empowerment, and promoting a healthier, happier life.

Once you have your Code

The patient must pass this passcode to the consultant when they arrive at the group. From then on, no one will ever mention your participation in the SWOR program again. Patients who are nervous about the members finding out about the referral need not worry. No one ever knows about the referral. The consultant will enter the code on their payment tablet. The patient, now a member, gets complete access to all Slimming World tools and the support of the group and consultant.

Shall we talk about money concerning Slimming World for Free?

As this is a referral, the consultant will receive a percentage of the fee directly from Slimming World (the percentage rate will depend on the number of paying members you have in your group; check out this post for more information here). Slimming World receives a fee directly from the NHS for the member. The consultant will not get paid if the member does not attend the group. Payment for a consultant with 40 members for a member on referral is circa £2.68 per person per meeting. If they only turn up for one session, the consultant will only receive £2.68. if the member turns up for 8 meetings, they will receive £21.44. (To check out the percentages a Slimming World Consultant earns, you may be interested in this article Weight Loss with a Slimming World Consultant and Empowering Women with Food Optimising).

Many people who join the Slimming World for free are dedicated to their weight loss and turn up regularly and have great success. However, a few people will turn up for the first week or two and then will sporadically turn up and become disappointed when their 12 weeks are up, and they can no longer come to Slimming World. It is explained to them that they need to come every week and cannot select which 12 weeks they want to come.

What happens after the 12-weeks of Slimming World for Free?

Then when the referral period ends, the member can change to become a regular member. All payment options, paying weekly or buying a 6 or 12-week countdown, will be available to them. Slimming World on referral is an excellent way for people to start their weight loss journey and get help, support and encouragement from their consultant and community.

A Difficult Conversation

Today I have had to make a business decision about my weight loss journey. Unfortunately, it is a financial and time decision. Unfortunately, the new group meeting I joined is on a Friday. After two weeks, I have discovered that this is not working for me. I’ve got too many clients asking for help and support. I have too many commitments on a Friday. My day starts at 5:30 a.m. on Friday with business networking and client work. That means I can’t stay in the group. The whole idea of going to a different group was that I could state image therapy. I could turn my phone off, but I find that more distracting. Probably a bit of FOMO.

I had to tell my friend that I can’t join her Friday group and what’s more, step down as a member of her Social Team. Not to worry she said, come to my Tuesday evening group. It’s closer to where you live. You can stay on the Social Team as I was looking for a new Pay Person anyway. What could I say…

Tuesday – My weight loss journey – Week Two

I went to an evening group and weighed in. I didn’t want to go to an evening group because I will be out 4 evenings a week. My original idea for an early morning group is still sound. It’s just impractical at the moment with my lifestyle and commitments. I have said that I will make this my regular group, become an active member, and stay to IMAGE therapy (more here about image therapy). In addition, I will also be on her social team. (More about Social Teams here). I also lost 2 lbs. Very happy


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What is a Slimming World Target Member

What is a Slimming World Target Member

It was one of those days and then I had a Slimming World Target Member.

There are some days/events when everything goes right, and then it just hits the fan royally. Today was one of those days. It started off really well. I started work at 8 a.m. My office is only a few minutes from home, but I prefer to work away from home. I had a lovely day in front of the computer. There’s nothing new there. That’s what I do every day. At 3 p.m., I left the office to help set up the Slimming World group with my friend. She like to get to the hall early to have enough time to avoid running around like a mad woman, setting everything up. To set up for a Slimming World meeting takes about an hour. There is a lot of kit to unpack from the car. Then there are the computers to set up, the scales and the kitchen. Then a Slimming World Target Member ruined my day. More of that in a minute.

Slimming World like to have everyone sit around in a horseshoe seating pattern, so there are a lot of chairs to move around. You need a table for payment, a table for weighing, a table for new members and an interest table. There are several plastic boards to put up, banners and A-frames. It just takes a lot of time. I like to be there in plenty of time so I can sit and relax for a few minutes, have a cup of tea, and greet the members as they arrive in a relaxed and friendly frame of mind.

I only wanted a key.

When we arrived today, the group who had the hall just before me (the WI or some other group) were finishing off. We always wait until they leave but need to be in to start to set up. She have a few people who help her set up and some of them arrive earlier. My friend went to one of the caretakers for the hall to ask if it was possible to have another key as some of the equipment is stored in the basement. Snappy is not the word.

“No, you can’t have another key; they are expensive, and you don’t pay for set up, but you are always here”.

“OK, not a problem,” she said, “I was only asking”.

“People take a key and never return them. It’s unfair on us”.

At this point, she just said thank you and walked away. There was a bit of a frost in the air until all the ladies left, and we sighed in relief. After they left, I had to tell my friend that we had a little run-in with one of the ladies in the kitchen area. They had spoken to the lady who was in the kitchen to tell her not to close the door as we were going to use the kitchen. She just looked at them, locked the door, put the key away, and walked off.

Am I being spied on?

We finished setting up just in time as the members started to arrive. The actual meeting was wonderful, one of the best in a while. There was another consultant who joined as a member who wants to lose weight. I don’t know about you, but somehow, it puts you on edge. It is like being judged. Will she return and say the group didn’t do something or said something wrong. My friend wasn’t worried.

The session went extremely well. We had 46 members turn up, and 26 stayed for Image Therapy. The room was buzzing, and everyone was in a good mood. There were more laughs, and I have, to be honest, a few innuendos going around. We certainly had a naughty corner.

My friend wanted to discuss everyone’s plans for the next 12 weeks and what everyone wanted to achieve. How they would get there, and what they needed to change to ensure they met their goals. Yes, we are coming to Christmas, so it is a perfect time to start planning. She had some Slimming World magazines that she gave out free to everyone for some added help and tips. The raffle went down a treat, and everyone had a plan and left happy. When my friend gets going she is on fire.

Target Member

Slimming World Target member

Then, one woman approached my friend to say she was still at Target, and my friend was really pleased for her. She congratulated her again. She was at Target a few weeks ago and has the Target book where you now transform your weight loss journey into a maintenance plan. This still takes 12 weeks because Slimming World don’t want you to gain weight. Then she said

“And I don’t have to pay anymore”.

She has mentioned this a few times, and most of the time, my friend is pleased and tell her that being at Target and coming to the group for free is a bonus, and we love having her there.

However, this time, she was boasting and doing a kind of jig. It made my friend a little mad. So, she did something so out of character I was taken aback a little:

She replied to my Slimming World Target Member…

“You do realise that I only get paid a percentage of the money I take from members. I don’t get paid by Slimming World. When target members come to a group, I don’t receive any payment or credit for them being in the group. However, I am thrilled to have you here”.

Her interrupted reply was:

“Well, I’m a Slimming World Target member and entitled to come to the group”.

She smiled and walked away as if she got something over on my friend. I have no idea what or why she has this attitude. The sad thing is, I overheard her a few weeks ago talking to her friend and stating that she will set her current weight as her target. She plans to stay at her current weight for a few weeks and will work on losing a few more stones. She intends to reset her target every three pounds, so she never has to pay again. Slimming World rules state that resetting your target has to be by 7 pounds each time to avoid this or at the consultant’s discretion. I know she had this conversation with her already.

She is currently at the bottom end of her target. When you set a target at Slimming World, the rules state that you can come to the group free of charge as long as you stay within 3 pounds up or down of your target weight. Next week, she will probably be out of target. She will have lost another pound. We will then have to have the conversation again. Its such a shame that a Slimming World target member ruined my evening when we should be celebrating her loss.

The Mood Changed

The group’s mood was so high, and this conversation was so sad. I don’t understand why she thinks getting free access to Slimming World is such a massive thing. If she doesn’t like the group, she can find one that suits her needs better. She doesn’t have to stay with my group. I h heheard of another Slimming World Consultant who has 10 target members in their group. They only have a group of 43 people. That means 33 paying members. They are not taking much home at all. See here for Slimming World earnings.

I went home feeling a little deflated because of her, I know it upset my friend. She then did her Slimming World admin, to find that her computer had just been upgraded, and, unfortunately, there was an error in the system. She had to call Slimming World’s Head office to get them to log into my computers and fix the error. A task due to take 30 minutes took 2 hours 30 minutes, and when she was finished, She was totally frazzled and pissed off and called me.

I’m Off to Bed to dream of my Slimming World Target Member!

She put’s so much energy into running a group, planning and running scenarios about what you will talk about. Physically moving the kit is exhausting as well. It can be heavy carrying 9 or 10 boxes into the hall and out again. Then, when you get home, bring them inside to keep them safe. Finally, to have the evening finish like this was infuriating.

Oh Yes, and for all of this, she earnt the grand total of £80.23 (7½ hours = £10.70 an hour, the minimum wage is £10.42. Above minimum wage by £0.28. Rockefeller move over).

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What makes me disappointed at my Weight Loss

What makes me disappointed at my Weight Loss

Running My Group

My friend runs two groups, a Tuesday is when she runs her first of my group. With Slimming World, you have to update the databases on your computer to be ready for the week ahead. The consultant can weigh in for free once you have done the update (a Handshake). The computer will only tell you how much you weigh. It won’t record the weight anywhere; you can only do this once weekly. Unlike a member, once you have weighed in, you cannot re-enter the card and try again.

I weigh in at home on my home scales. Primarily because I want to ensure that I am prepared for the number I am going to see on the computer. I generally weigh about two hours before the group. This will give me enough time to prepare myself. It’s a lovely little ritual and sets me up for the start of my Slimming World visit. As I have just renewed my membership with another group, I am comfortable with this little ritual.

Disappointed at my Weight Loss – but not too much

I can’t tell you how disappointed at my Weight Loss I was when I stepped on the scales and it said that I had put on 2 pounds. Let’s remember a few days ago, I had lost 3 pounds. I am trying to stay optimistic about this as it’s only a test weight. However, 2 pounds mid-week weigh.

Slimming World consultants are fat

I know that weighing yourself every day or more than once a week can be counterproductive. It can send you off in a whirlwind of emotions, take you off plan, and lead to an unhealthy obsession with the number on the scale. I will not let that happen. I will not allow any weight gain to contribute to a damaging emotional addiction with the number and then put any psychological pressure on me to forget the plan. Planning works, it works for me. So, sitting down and thinking about it, here are my top thirteen reasons you should avoid more than one weigh-in daily a week.

My Top 13 Reasons

  1. Weight Fluctuations are normal: Our weight naturally fluctuates from day to day. Factors that can affect our weight are numerous. Still, factors like hydration, food intake, sodium intake, menstrual cycles (for women), recent meals, hormones, and more will affect the number. These factors don’t reflect changes in body fat or overall health. When individuals see temporary weight gain, they may assume it’s fat gain, leading to unnecessary worry and potentially harmful dietary restrictions. Therefore, daily weigh-ins are misleading and cause undue stress.
  2. Creating an obsession with the scale: This is one I have overcome. I used to weigh daily if not twice a day. To see the difference, this started an unhealthy fixation on the number. It never leads to an eating disorder or poor body image issues, just fascination, but I can see how it would.
  3. Scales have Inaccuracies: Some scales can be imprecise, and weighing yourself at different times or on different scales can yield inconsistent results. How many times have you weighed yourself, then moved the scales for them to give you another number.
  4. Misinterpretation of Trends: Daily weight fluctuations might be misinterpreted as weight gain or loss, leading to unnecessary dietary changes. It can also lead to you forgoing your healthy eating plan and finding solous in high-fat high sugar foods. Daily fluctuations are typically just noise in the data. They don’t necessarily reflect your long-term progress or the effectiveness of your efforts to eat healthily or exercise regularly. When people fixate on daily weigh-ins, they might fail to see the broader picture and mistakenly think they’re failing their weight management goals.
  5. Discouragement: Seeing small daily fluctuations, or even temporary weight gain, can discourage individuals and undermine their motivation.
  6. Psychological Impact: Weight is often closely tied to an individual’s self-esteem and body image. Seeing the number on the scale go up, even temporarily, can trigger negative emotions such as frustration, disappointment, or anxiety. These emotions can be powerful enough to overshadow any positive progress that may have occurred over time.
  7. Increased Stress: The stress associated with daily weigh-ins can release cortisol. This stress hormone may actually hinder weight loss efforts. Elevated stress levels can lead to overeating or making unhealthy food choices as a way to cope with emotional distress.
  8. Negative Self-Image: Frequent fluctuations can contribute to a negative self-image. Individuals may start to view themselves solely through the lens of their daily weight, forgetting about other important aspects of their health and well-being. 
  9. Emotional Impact: For some, daily weigh-ins can negatively affect self-esteem and mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, or a distorted self-image.
  10. Focus on health, not just weight: Health encompasses more than just your weight. Focusing solely on weight might lead you to overlook other important aspects of your well-being, like nutrition, physical activity, and mental health.
  11. Slow progress: Healthy weight loss or fitness improvements are often gradual. Daily weigh-ins can make it difficult to see long-term progress, which can be discouraging.
  12. Body composition: Weight doesn’t accurately reflect changes in body composition (e.g., muscle gain, fat loss). You might be getting healthier even if the scale doesn’t budge.
  13. Sustainability: Daily weigh-ins can be hard to maintain over the long term. Developing sustainable, healthy habits that focus on overall well-being is essential rather than just a number on the scale.

Conclusion in why I am disappointed at my Weight Loss

There you go, a few reasons why you shouldn’t weigh yourself daily or twice a week.

To avoid these negative consequences, it’s often recommended to focus on broader measures of health and progress, such as improvements in energy levels, fitness, dietary choices, and overall well-being. If tracking your weight is essential, consider weighing yourself less frequently (e.g., weekly or monthly) to better reflect meaningful trends and reduce the psychological toll of daily fluctuations.

My official weight will be with the new group and my friend the consultant. There you go, decision made, and I don’t feel stressed about the situation. In fact, I feel really relaxed about the whole thing as I’m not as disappointed at my Weight Loss as I have a plan of action.

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What is the Slimming World Training like?

What is the Slimming World Training like?

Slimming World Training

Who doesn’t love a new week? Full of possibilities. Full of promise and full of ambitious plans. For me, I start at 8:00 a.m. It is always the time to begin to make plans and decide where you want to go. That means deciding which projects I’m going to work on? How to spend the entire week. What training courses will I choose to look at? I like to do a little training each week.

As a Slimming World consultant, my friend is always on some kind of training. In fact, I would go as far as saying the training is relentless. this is the training she had to go through just to become a consultant.

This training starts before you even become a fully fledge SlimmingWorld consultant. You start with what they call pre-training before you go to the sparkly Castle located in Alferton in Derby. This pre-training consists of about 3 hours with a team developer. Her three-hour training lasted four and a half hours at the end of a hectic day. And to this day, she can’t really tell you what it is she learnt. There was so much going on. And in some respects, you got bamboozled with science. They go over your earnings and what you could earn in each group. Obviously, they give you the best-case scenario. The reality is very different, but you only find that out once you run your group.

Slimming World Training as a Franchise

In my friends own word

“After you have ‘signed’ the franchise agreement and paid your money (it doesn’t matter how much you pay for a franchise, as the prices can vary depending on your area and the needs of SlimmingWorld), you still get the same training.

Training at Slimming World

Franchise training takes 8 days. The split is 3, 3 and 2 days. You have to attend each set of training days. All the training she had to participate in was conducted at the ‘Sparkly Castle’. This is just a big office building in Alferton in Derby. From the photos the atrium and the dining area look beautiful. The toilets are also something to behold. But the training is full on. She start at 9:00 – 9:30 in the morning on the first day, and didn’t finish until 5:30. The first few hours of your training are just going over the philosophy of SlimmingWorld.

This is similar to what you did with your team developer in your pre-training meeting. Someone got hold of a management tool on training philosophy, created some rules, and just kept repeating them. I am sure you know the rules I am talking about. This is a safe place to learn. SlimmingWorld is here to support you. We are your best friends. You are so special to be selected to become a SlimmingWorld Consultant, you know the kind of stuff.

Day one

This philosophy is repeated in different forms until 11:30 a.m. or the first break. Then you start to hear more about Slimming World and how it began. How to run a group, and all the other things you need to start your franchise. It’s important to realise that it is a franchise you’re buying. Your own business.

Throughout the day there are planned breaks. Unfortunately, when you return, you have a small recap of what you just learned. After lunchtime, you have another recap. You leave the Sparkly Castle at 5:30.

Day Two

The second day starts, and you are full of vigour, anticipating the new stuff you will learn. You are in the training room at 09.00 a.m., ready to start this exciting day. Then, you have a quick recap of the philosophy of SlimmingWorld and the rules of the training environment, you know, the ones discussed on day one. That takes you to 11:30 a.m. Now, you may be thinking that I’ve just repeated this paragraph. Because that’s what I said happened on day one. You’re absolutely correct. We repeated the same stuff. It was infuriating. On day 2, you leave at about 5:30 p.m.

Day Three

You guessed it, we start with a recap of the philosophy of SlimmingWorld. This is where it starts to feel a little bit like a cult. The training recaps, the philosophy and the be nice to each other. This is a safe place to learn.

From my point of view, it is not a safe place to learn at all. They may have read ‘How to Run a Safe Training Course’ book and listened to a few podcasts, but they have no idea how to implement it. I know several new consultants who asked questions, made a few comments to the trainers and were shot down in uncertain terms. Additionally, they received phone calls from their Team Developers at the next break about what was happening.  

Sadly, these training courses are not a safe place to learn; you cannot be honest with the trainers and ask questions. THEY DON’T LIKE IT. These training courses should be where you can ask silly questions. You can make mistakes and get issues explained. Sadly, all the trainers did was shut the students up, refer them to the manuals, or ask them to ask their Team Developers. They had a set script they wanted to complete, and that was what they would do.

The sad thing is their attitude to training was so closed-minded. It was a shame because they had such a great opportunity with their new consultants to get a great team of people. The training is very much 1980s dictatorial.

Moving On

After you’ve done your first three days, you go and collect your KIT. Exciting times. Two computers and a set of scales. Then, you go and open your first group/session. (I know we have not discussed marketing yet, but we will do). A few weeks later, you return for another three days of training.

Days four, five and six

On day four of your training, you have a recap of SlimmingWorld’s philosophy. I know you’ve already had it on days one, two, and three, and here we are again. Repeated. Now, there are other topics that you will cover, but we can’t forget the recaps. You go through more training. More recaps.

Day Seven and Eight

Yes, more recaps at the Sparkly Castle to finish your training and then you graduate. Graduation then sees everybody taking lots of photographs at the sparkly Castle with cap and gown stating that you are now a fully fledge SlimmingWorld consultant, even though you have been running your group for about four months.

Flippant

You may think I am flippant about the training and recaps, but it was infuriating. There were some valid questions on Days 1-3 and 4-6, not so many, but you could see people wanted to ask questions, and on Days 7-8, no one really asked what they wanted to know. They asked questions, but not as many as they wished to, as they knew they wouldn’t get the answers.

In addition to this training, you must complete 8 online Diplomas. This is more relevant to your consultant role and very useful. You also have to get in the high 90% to pass. These diplomas were first-class and covered nutrition, business, marketing, and health. This is the stuff that should have been taught at Head Office.

More Slimming World Training

There is more training coming your way. For the first six weeks of becoming a consultant, you have a call with the head office staff to answer any additional questions. Excellent service and very knowledgeable people. I 100% approve.

After those six weeks, your Team Developer will call you, and then you have a 30-minute chat/coaching session with them. These calls will continue until you leave SlimmingWorld. Excellent consultant support. I 100% approve.

Every other month, you have a regional meeting where you discuss new promotions, issues you have, or getting help and support from fellow consultants. I 100% approve. You also get to meet some new consultants, which is quite lovely”. 

Back to Me

Slimming World Training is really good

Slimming World training does appear to be thorough. They look after their consultants, and they want to train them well. Slimming World concentrate on topics that should be covered in Team Meetings and not on these training days. Then repeat everything. A lot of the stuff that most new consultants find out, they find out by default and not through the training, which is a shame.

This Is My Supposition

SlimmingWorld has lost a great opportunity when people are at the Sparkley Castle. A prime example is the new member talk. They don’t really discuss. There is a fantastic opportunity to address many of the questions people on social media have. Why food is not demonised, how we use portion control and give people the power over their eating. It’s just not discussed. It would be fantastic if this was the philosophy SlimmingWorld taught during the Franchise training. Stop with the nicey nicey. Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Because the plan is good. The consultants are passionate about their groups. Head Office, you need to give them the tools.

Above and beyond with Slimming World Training

It sound like Slimming World training was dire, and in some respects, it sounds like it. However, in other respects, they do go above and beyond. The support that everyone gets is outstanding. It’s a credit to SlimmingWorld. It’s instant, it’s there. All my friend has to do to speak to the team at Head Office is pick up the phone and they are always happy to talk. Somebody will support her. Helping her. They’ve tried really, really hard to look after their consultants. However, some of the training falls short of what is required.

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What is Slimming World Mid Week Support

What is Slimming World Mid Week Support

Sunday is normally a fantastic day of rest, or so you would think, unless you are a Slimming World Consultant. This is when many consultants spend a few hours doing Slimming World mid week support. I know this, because whenever I ask my friend to come out for a walk on a Sunday, she always refuses as she is doing midweek support. Consultants respect and admire all their members. After all, without their members, they wouldn’t have a business. They want their members to be successful at weight loss. There are six straightforward reasons for this:

  1. If a member loses weight, they will tell family and friends how they did it and hopefully suggest to family and friends that they should join the group if they need to lose weight.
  2. When members reach their goal weight, they are a perfect advertisement for the club.
  3. Consultants take pride in helping their members move from where they were to where they want to be. Either a number on the scales, fitting into a wedding dress or any other goal the member has.
  4. Consultants want the people in the group to be happy and excited about the changes in their lives.
  5. Members are the lifeline of the group, and if you get a few members who love coming and make the group a joy to be in,  other members will come and stay. Not just to lose weight, but for friendship and fun.
  6. The Consultants, like their members, become vested in their lives. They celebrate and support members when times are good and hard.

Slimming World Mid Week Support

Slimming World Mid week support comes in a variety of ways. It can be a general video on Facebook or YouTube. It can be single text messages and emails to each individual member. All messages are personal and encouraging. Commenting on their weight loss that week. Asking if they need any help or support. Depending on your group, this can take an hour to three. It usually takes me about three hours.

This is not to mention individual meetings. My friend has had several one-to-one’s with my members, as they found the plan hard. When she talk to them, it’s not the plan they find challenging, but what is going on at home. Most women find that they have lost themselves in the roles of wife, mother, daughter, employee, etc. They find it challenging to discover who they are and if they like themselves. As one of her members recently told me, Slimming World was the only place she could go to be themselves. It was the one place where they were Katie, and no one was yelling for something. No one wanted anything from her. This was the place she could be herself. Listening to these stories repeatedly reveals that going to and staying in a group is much more than a weight loss programme. Many of these ladies have put everyone first and lost themselves. This is the place where they are trying to find themselves.

Confidence within members

One of the other significant aspects of being a consultant is seeing the confidence growing in each member. A recent widow joined our group and was in tears as she discussed how she put on her weight. Losing her husband was too much for her, and she found comfort in food. She put on the weight and now wants to be the woman she remembers as she faces her grief. It is taking time, but her confidence is growing with each meeting. The way she walks and carries herself. The way she interacts with the group and the friends she makes.

Time for Me

I found that day 10 was a tough day on my eating plan and I am having that feeling where I start to go awry. I am sure you know the feeling. You have been on plan for ages; nothing changes, yet you are still slogging your guts out to stay on plan. McDonald’s and cakes are being advertised on TV; if I never see an advert for chocolate, it will be too soon.

To overcome this 30-minute self-depravation pity party, because that is what it is, I took my dog out for a really nice long walk. We have a rule: I decided on the walk during the week. Usually, it’s walking into work and home again. On weekends, it is her choice, and she knows it. This week, we went on a nature walk. We have several fields near us, and she wanted to explore those. She took her time, and what was meant to be an hour’s walk turned out to be about two hours.

A Childs Scooter

En route, I found a child scooter thrown in the hedge, so I picked it up and started to ride it. It took me back to my youth; anyone looking on would have thought we were mad. I was on a kid’s scooter, and the dog crouched behind me, thinking she would fall off any minute. I didn’t, but it made me smile and lifted my mood. It’s incredible what people will throw away. Last week, I found a new pair of NEXT curtains, just dumped in the hedgerow. I took them home, washed them and now they are in the spare bedroom.

I completed my 10,000-foot falls today, which I know is excellent for my body’s overall health. I’m dedicated to my weight loss journey this week and giving it my all. When I got home, I was pleasantly surprised that the roast chicken was almost ready to be served. I had to set the table, make some gravy (only 3 syns, which is not too bad), and serve up.

Can’t beat a disaster movie for relaxation

After indulging in a satisfying lunch, I decided to dedicate my afternoon to some relaxation and entertainment. I settled in front of the TV, watching a disaster movie. It was the perfect way to unwind and recharge before the impending workweek, a brief escape into the world of fiction and action.

A Movie with Slimming World Mid Week Support

One of the most satisfying aspects of my day was that I successfully adhered to my plan for healthy eating. I’d set out with a clear intention of making mindful and nutritious choices, and I stayed true to my goal. It’s a testament to my commitment to my overall well-being and health. Taking control of my dietary choices and making healthier decisions have become a significant part of my journey, and seeing it through gives me a sense of accomplishment and empowerment.

As the day transitions into the evening, I find myself in a state of optimism and anticipation. While keeping my fingers crossed and hoping for a positive outcome when I step on the scales this week, I’m consciously avoiding putting undue pressure on myself. Weight loss is a journey with its ebbs and flows, and I’ve come to understand that it’s essential to maintain a balanced and sustainable approach.

Staying on the Slimming World Food Optimising Plan

My focus remains on staying committed to my goals, whether they involve making healthier food choices, engaging in regular physical activity, or cultivating a more positive mindset. The results will come, but they’re just one part of the larger picture. What truly matters is the ongoing effort, the daily choices that align with my aspirations, and the persistent dedication to my well-being.

So, as I look ahead to the coming week, I do so with a heart full of hope and determination. Each step towards a healthier me is in the right direction, and I’m excited to continue this journey. Challenges, moments of temptation, and occasional setbacks may exist, but it’s all part of the process. With commitment, patience, and the understanding that every day is a new opportunity to make progress, I embrace the future with open arms, eagerly awaiting its best.

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