It wasn’t me who called you from “Robo Calls International,” in a weird, mechanical voice. Nor did I warn you about your impending Tax or Visa doom. But I have done a wee survey of my friends in TOPS, with just a few innocent questions. Here it is.
1. Are you closer to your goal weight now than when you joined?
2. Have you improved your health habits since joining TOPS?
3. Do you feel supported in reaching your goals by being in TOPS?
4. What is one thing you want others to know about TOPS?
The results might surprise you. Did you think everyone got closer to their goal weight? Well, most said yes. But weight loss is a lesser point, when you learn that 100% improved/kept their good health habits, and 100% get support on their good health journey by taking part in TOPS.
Let me tell you the themes that TOPS members wanted to share with you. And by the way, all of the responses were positive!
Most raved about the support they get from going to TOPS meetings.
“The support I have received whether gaining or losing each week has been invaluable.”
“Even if I haven’t lost the weight that I’d like to, I have always felt greatly supported.”
“No one judges you. Even though I have not lost much weight, going to TOPS has keeps me on track from gaining a whole lot.”
“TOPS meetings always leave me with a true sense of belonging. I know that fellow members are there for me if I need their support.”
“It’s a great support group and social contact.”
“Discussions enable members to share personal anecdotes, strengthening camaraderie and support.”
“This is a support group. There is no criticism, only positive suggestions, if asked for.”
“It’s a welcoming group of people, a support group open to any and all.”
Several other comments were about enjoyment.
“I enjoy discussion about health and weight loss, and lots of other topics of interest.”
“I enjoy our meetings, at times so silly it's comical, and at other times serious and thought-provoking.”
“In short, a great and caring bunch of ladies whom I enjoy being with.”
And there were more comments about the benefits of TOPS.
“The topical programs members take turns presenting are informative, current, and varied, and convey substantive healthy living data, information, and issues.”
“Being weighed weekly in a discreet forum keeps one mindful of one's weight-loss journey.”
“It works!”
Join us if this sounds like a group you’d like to belong to. We’re an emotionally safe group for anyone who wants support to change their habits and improve their health. Every Wednesday morning from 9:00 to 10:00 we meet, weigh in, learn something new, sometimes play a game, have discussions, and are present for each other. We’re an inexpensive, international program. Check out our website at www.tops.org. (Your first visit is free.) If you’d like to give it a try, call .
Submitted by Amber Harvey