No "I" in Team

If you know me at all, you know that one of the only things that excites more than one of our Boston sports teams on a championship run, is a good and inspirational quote. Sometimes, I am fortunate enough to enjoy both: a great quote from one of my favorite teams. Ten years ago, the stars were aligned. As the Celtics were competing for a championship, their inspirational coach Doc Rivers memorably told his players "If you want to go fast, go alone, but if you want to go far, go as a team." The Celtics won the 2008 NBA Championship AND I got a little gem to add to my quote collection.

What, you might ask, does this have to do with weight loss? Bear with me through a little sports talk and I’ll get you there.

Here we are, 10 years later and the Celtics are again contending for a championship. The Celtics are currently facing the Cavaliers and one of the greatest players ever, LeBron James. The Celtics have talented players for sure, but it would be hard to argue that any of them are individually in a class with LeBron. But what the Celtics do have is a strong sense of and commitment to team. Individually, no Celtic player could defend LeBron, but by playing "team defense" and working together at a common cause, they have been able to neutralize his potentially overwhelming talent.

Now the weight loss part: BUILD YOUR TEAM!

If you want to go far, go as a team. My patients who have been most consistently able to maintain their weight loss work as part of a team. That “team” can come in many forms. Some people like to regularly attend support group in person or participate on line. Others choose to regularly visit with me, or Julie (our talented Nurse Practitioner), or Alison (our wonderful Nutritionist), or Susan (our insightful Psychologist). Some folks field a team of family, friends, co-workers or fellow weight loss patients. The important part is selecting people who share your goals and who are willing to support you. When we journey as a team, we go far together.

Now, an important message: If you are struggling, please don’t do it alone. Weight loss, like life, is a winding path with ups and downs. Far too often I hear people say that they were too embarrassed to come see me. Listen up --- I am your teammate! I’ve got your back.  Together we can get you back on track and go far.

Oh, and GO CELTS!