Where Do I Start? How to Share Your Obesity Story
"I don't know where or how to start sharing my story."
Sound familiar? You're not alone. It's not abnormal to feel unsure of where to begin, especially with a condition that can impact your life day-to-day. Much like a weight management plan, getting started tends to be the hardest part - especially if you've never opened up about your journey with obesity before.
Are you afraid to share your experience?
It can be scary to think about opening up about your story with obesity, especially with the stigma and misunderstanding surrounding it. Are you worried about how others will respond or worry that nobody wants to hear what you have to share?
I can assure you that your story is invaluable to you and the community. I read every story that gets submitted to Obesity.net. Each and every story has impact and helps shed light on the realities of a life with obesity. You never know who will read your story and how relatable and validating it might be fore them. Just think about how you got here!
Many people have said that once they started putting pen to paper, writing their experiences became cathartic. If you're nervous about sharing, think less about how it will be received and more about what you can gain from the experience!
Are you ready to share?
There isn't a singular format or structure you need to follow. No two stories are the same. Share your story in a way that feels true to your experiences. If you don't know where to begin, I've gathered some pointers to help you take the first step. So, where can you start?
Step 1: Introduce yourself!
Start by introducing yourself! Share a bit about what your life looks like, your background, and your interests. Your audience doesn't know who you are so tell them about yourself.
- What's your name?
- Where are you from?
- Who are you outside of your life with obesity?
Step 2: Share your experiences with obesity!
Obesity is a big part of your life and likely impacts many aspects of it. Reflect on those experiences and how they have affected you - from weight and health management to day-to-day life.
- How long have you been living with obesity?
- How do you feel about the word "obesity"?
- What have your experiences with doctors been?
- What have your experiences with weight management been?
- What has your daily life looked like with obesity?
Step 3: How you are doing today?
You've reflected on who you are and how obesity has shaped your experiences, so where does that bring you today? Think about why you are sharing your story or why you came to the obesity community.
- How are you feeling mentally?
- How are you feeling physically?
- What are your goals and plans for managing your obesity?
- Have you made any progress or have things worsened?
- What are your life goals and how do you plan to achieve them?
Don't forget to make your story personal. Remember, it's yours. It's okay to share your personality, raw emotions, sense of humor, or style of writing (a short story, poem, or song). Your story should be as unique as you are.
I look forward to reading your story!
-Courtney (Obesity.net Team Member)
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