The Book that Put Language to How I Coach My Clients

Recently, while thrifting, I picked up a book I thought explained the methodology behind Weight Watchers (WW). What I found instead was something much more aligned with my own beliefs about health.

Reading The Shift: 7 Powerful Mindset Changes for Lasting Weight Loss by Gary Foster, I kept catching myself thinking “YES - I coach my clients this way,” or “So-&-so needs to hear this.” I couldn’t read it fast enough to pass it along.

I often hear from clients that they feel better, sometimes even relieved, after our conversations because their mindset begins to shift. And while I’m not a therapist, I see this pattern all the time: people generally know what to eat, but something still gets in the way of actually doing it.

That’s where mindset matters.

I’m a big believer in the 80/20 rule. You have to live your life and enjoy it. Otherwise, what are we doing?

So how does this book reflect the way I approach health? Here are the themes that stood out the most:

1. You are more than your weight
“You are not your weight.” (p. 24)

2. Health doesn’t happen in a silo
It’s not about perfection; it’s about practicing what to do when life inevitably gets in the way.

3. Self-compassion is essential
You can’t be cruel to yourself and expect to stay motivated and see results long-term.

4. Your thoughts shape your actions
Learning to challenge unhelpful thinking is a game-changer.

5. You have to enjoy the process
If you don’t like what you’re doing, you won’t stick with it.

This book put language and structure to many of the things I already believe, but hadn’t fully articulated.

Over the next few posts, I’ll break down these themes and share practical ways to apply them to your own health journey.

Iron Plates Nutrition Book Review: 5/5
An easy, well-articulated read — especially for anyone who needs to be a little kinder to themselves.

If you’re looking to read this book, you can purchase it through my Amazon link here.