17 weeks...

It is completely hilarious how as soon as you start to show a little bit, EVERYONE becomes an expert on babies and all things pregnancy related. It doesn’t matter if they are young , old, have children of their own, male or female…for some reason EVERYONE feels the need to tell you what you should be doing with your baby LOL Fortunately for me, I take a lot of this so called advice with a grain of salt. I have my trusted circle of friends and a great doctor who know me, know my beliefs, know my lifestyle and can accurately give me sound advice. Everyone else’s words go through my filter and honestly, a lot of those words go in one ear and out the other.

Interestingly enough, I have felt this kind of “advice flood” before. The first time was when I started training for my first bodybuilding competition and began to lose weight. Those around me noticed a change and openly shared their opinions on my workouts and weight loss, even when it wasn’t asked for or needed. I started to laugh to myself as I realized the similarities in the way people handle someone who is losing weight and someone who is pregnant. Both situations call attention to the individual, both situations make others feel like they can comment and give advice freely, and both situations can create very awkward moments if words are not handled correctly. Here are a few suggestions on how to handle a little unwanted advice, whether it’s regarding your weight or your pregnancy.

#1 Do What Your Expert Says- You hired your trainer and I picked my doctor for a reason!!! They know the most about your lifestyle, habits, weaknesses, goals and have worked hard to give you a program that suites your needs. While the advice from your friend, co-worker, mom or uncle might be valid and possibly great, it’s best to stick with one plan at a time. You chose to trust your trainer so follow the plan that they prepared for you. Once you give 100% to that plan for at least 30 days, you can re-evaluate and decide if you need a change.

#2 Don’t let Weird Comments get to You- Whether you are losing weight or in my case, getting bigger, you hear the occasional “off-color” comment. These comments like “Stop losing weight!!”, “you are looking nice and round” or “Are you only eating lettuce?” usually are blurted out expressions that even the source doesn’t understand. A smile and a laugh is usually the best response! Sometimes, the source just wants a reaction from you, but don’t waste your time giving it to them. Stay focused on your goals and being the healthiest you possible, instead of what random people happen to say.

#3- Don’t Just Stand There- Stuck between a wall and that person just won’t stop talking? You don’t have to listen, especially if they are being negative! Some advice-givers don’t even stop for air and it’s hard to find a break to make your exit. Realize that you are never trapped! You can always politely say “excuse me”, even if it’s not at the end of their sentence, and be on your way. Politely is the key word here LOL

Using these tips, along with hard work and dedication will get you to your goal whether it’s to lose a few pounds or deliver a healthy baby!!!