Do you invite friends and family to MFP?

Some friends notice my weight loss and ask about my 'secrets' so I insist that MFP is the X factor. I tell them that calorie logging, regular exercise and social support has really made the difference.

Most say that they'll get around to it. But one friend finally told me that the reason why she didn't make an account was that she didn't really need more computer time while seating down. Obviously the pros outweigh the cons by a ton (puns intended).

I wish more friends get over those excuses and made an account. It would make such a big difference in their efforts.

So what kind of excuses do your friends or family make for not making an account?
How do you convince them to start counting calories?

The point here is to avoid making those excuses ourselves and to learn how to sell the idea to those who could use it.

Replies

  • jkandktmom
    jkandktmom Posts: 1,010 Member
    I strongly encouraged one of my friends to at least look at the boards. she was doing a starvation "diet" and I wanted her to see how unhealthy it was. Other than that I just tell people how great it is and they join if/when they want to.
  • Impy84
    Impy84 Posts: 430
    I've invited at least 2 friends. Only one has joined. Guess only one was motivated.
  • JustJennie1
    JustJennie1 Posts: 3,749 Member
    I invited a friend who joined but she's never on here.
  • slim_photographer
    slim_photographer Posts: 310 Member
    I've invited at least 2 friends. Only one has joined. Guess only one was motivated.
    I've invited about a dozen. 2 made accounts and they are gone too. :ohwell:
  • julieh391
    julieh391 Posts: 683 Member
    I've invited people, but as far as I know nobody from my "real life" is on here. I can't motivate anybody unless they're ready.
  • MalSponseller
    MalSponseller Posts: 217 Member
    I've had two friends join and another stranger ask me about MFP.

    After my weight loss and exercise posts were also put on Facebook, a close friend and a professor of mine ended up joining.

    The other night a co-worker was trying to coax me into have a Reese's peanut butter cup, which is over 200 calories per cup. I told her I only had an allotment of 120 calories left for the day, but I appreciated her offer. A customer overheard me, and questioned what diet I was on. I explained MFP to her and she seemed very interest. I hope she joined. ^^
  • vegasmari
    vegasmari Posts: 120 Member
    Funny the excuses people make. I'm on here because of a close friend, but now she doesn't even log in. The biggest supporters are going to be the ones you don't know on MFP, they're the ones that keep me motivated because they've made the choice on their own to be here. We're all here for each other.... plenty of people to pick from :)
  • 75Juniper
    75Juniper Posts: 376
    I've invited a handful of people. No one has been that interested. I usually don't bring it up unless someone asks me what I'm doing to lose weight. I tell them all the wonderful things about it, but I think what they really hear is, "It takes hard work, dedication, and commitment." Then I watch their faces fall.

    I don't judge them for it, though. Everyone has to find their own way. It wasn't that long ago that I was the person asking someone how they lost weight and then getting depressed when I found out it wasn't a magical solution.
  • Lisseth03
    Lisseth03 Posts: 518 Member
    i always encourage friends and family on here, I wouldn't be where I am without MFP :)
  • Behavior_Modification
    Behavior_Modification Posts: 24,482 Member
    I just tell people I have an online support system. I can get pretty personal on the threads and some of it is stuff I'd just rather not share with certain family members & friends - and especially not coworkers. Plus I am on here during work hours, so I must remain incognito. :glasses:
  • slim_photographer
    slim_photographer Posts: 310 Member
    I've invited a handful of people. No one has been that interested. I usually don't bring it up unless someone asks me what I'm doing to lose weight. I tell them all the wonderful things about it, but I think what they really hear is, "It takes hard work, dedication, and commitment." Then I watch their faces fall.

    I don't judge them for it, though. Everyone has to find their own way. It wasn't that long ago that I was the person asking someone how they lost weight and then getting depressed when I found out it wasn't a magical solution.

    " "It takes hard work, dedication, and commitment." Then I watch their faces fall."
    I think I know what you're talking about. It's so true. I don't judge them neither. I wish they come over so it would be a little bit easier.
  • mikeschratz
    mikeschratz Posts: 253 Member
    I can't pursuade anyone, the tons (your words not mine) will be the "Great Pursuador!"
    I can give them the tools and suggestions, but if they don't take them and keep using the excuses, that is up to them.

    Y'all have taught me that being accountable to others, supporting others and working on a "Primary Purpose" works, it has worked on several things in my life today!

    Thank to all for the support,
    Peace and Blessings!
  • Carolyn_79
    Carolyn_79 Posts: 935 Member
    I think most people want to lose weight but they haven't had that important moment yet that makes them dig deep and put in the effort. Until they're ready, they aren't going to join. I've told a few people and none have joined and none have lost weight either.
  • JMPerlin
    JMPerlin Posts: 287 Member
    Only a handful of them cause I need a place to vent about the rest in peace. :wink: