Why People Push Back Against Your Healthy Choices (and How to Stay Strong)
Learn why people push back against healthy choices and how to stay strong in your wellness journey. Discover practical tips for self-advocacy, setting boundaries, and thriving—even when others don’t understand.
Let’s be honest—choosing health isn’t always easy. When you start making changes to support your body and mind, you’d think people around you would cheer you on. But often, the opposite happens. You might notice pushback, judgment, or even subtle pressure to “just let it go” and go back to old habits.
The truth? This resistance usually has very little to do with you—and everything to do with them.
Why People Push Back Against Health
It’s surprising how often people react negatively when you make healthy changes. Here’s why:
Change makes people uncomfortable. Your growth may highlight areas where others feel stuck.
Food and lifestyle are emotional. People often tie traditions, comfort, and identity to what they eat and how they live, so your choices may feel like a threat to theirs.
Fear of the unknown. Choosing wellness sometimes means questioning habits or industries that most people take for granted, and not everyone is ready for that.
Instead of seeing your changes as personal, many will try to pull you back to what feels “normal” to them. Sadly, some people even want you to fail so they don’t feel bad about their own health choices. And others simply don’t believe that eating healthy matters.
Why Self-Advocacy Matters
When you choose to prioritize your health—whether it’s changing your diet, setting boundaries, saying no to certain foods, or carving out time for exercise—you’re sending a clear message: “My health matters, and I matter.”
That takes strength. And sometimes, it makes other people uncomfortable.
Self-advocacy is about standing firm in your decisions, even when others question, minimize, or dismiss them. It’s the reminder that you’re not doing this for approval—you’re doing it because you know what your body, mind, and soul need.
Remember: You’re Doing the Right Thing
In those moments when you feel judged, pressured, or doubted, remind yourself:
You are not alone. Many people face resistance when making healthier choices—and I am always here to help. My heart goes out to my clients when they struggle with this. It truly does. I live it every day, so I know exactly how you feel.
You’re breaking cycles. By standing firm, you’re not just improving your own life—you’re setting an example for others who want to make change but are afraid to.
Progress over perfection. Every step you take toward health matters, even if others don’t see it.
How to Stay Grounded in Your Journey
Have a strong “why.” Write down why you started and revisit it when things get hard.
Set boundaries. You don’t need to explain every choice. A simple “this is what works best for me” is enough.
Find your people. Surround yourself with a community—online or in person—who understands and supports your goals.
Celebrate your wins. Big or small, every step forward deserves recognition.
A Seasonal Reminder
People may not always understand your choices, but that doesn’t mean you’re wrong. Stay strong, keep going, and know that you are doing the right thing—even when it feels hard. My heart truly goes out to you when you struggle with this. I live it every day, so I know exactly how you feel. And always remember, I am here to support you and walk beside you on your journey.
August and September are my favorite months to reset the body and get it ready for the dark winter months. Supporting your health now will keep you healthier and stronger through the winter.
In health,
Dr. Jennette Malsbury, Ph.D.
Owner, Nutritional Restoration & Two Moons Tinctures
🌿 www.nutritionalrestoration.com