It may be just the news you long to broadcast once you’ve succeeded but taking those first steps towards weight loss and a healthy new life are very private for most people.

I wasn’t surprised at all by news this week that people keen to lose weight have welcomed Telehealth consultations with their doctors. It’s the anonymity, the privacy and I’m sure that if AstonRX wasn’t an online program, it may not be as appealing.

We keep everything anonymous here. In the forums and when people type their questions during webinars, which are closed to members-only, we only see first names and no faces or surnames.

People understandably don’t want to be identified when they’re undergoing massive life change so we’re completely focused on increasing the comfort zone. That’s what builds confidence.

I have the enormous privilege of being able to help people gain confidence in themselves. It’s one of the aspects of my work I enjoy the most – to see people blossom in ways they never imagined. So, when someone works up the courage to ask a question during a webinar, I welcome them, hope they never feel silly because there’s no such thing as a silly question in this environment. Everyone is learning and blossoming together.

Plus, others are likely to be wondering about the same issue so they appreciate the question being asked. It normalises the experience and makes everyone feel safer and more confident to share their issues.

They may not be able to get that level of support in their established group of friends. When people are changing their lives for the better, in a positive way, often those closest to them aren’t supportive and sabotage their friends’ progress because they’re not ready for the change themselves.

So, to be able to come to a safe environment with us, among like minded people who are all trying to achieve something similar helps them feel understood and know they’re never being judged.

Our members are in varying states, ranging from being morbidly obese to just wanting to shed a few kilograms and those who are battling serious metabolic health issues. No matter what the level of your journey, this is a safe place, and everyone knows we’re on their side. We have the knowledge and skills to help.

That support is priceless. It’s crucial to achievement and getting the very best results you all deserve for taking the crucial steps towards lifelong health.