Setting Realistic Expectations with your Friendly Neighborhood Dietitian

“I know what I need to do, I just need to do it.”

“I don’t need a dietitian, I know how to eat.”

“Why is food news so confusing? One day eggs are bad and the next day they are not?”

Sound like anything you’ve ever thought? That makes sense, because there can be some misconceptions about who a dietitian is and what an appointment might look like.

Let’s get into it.

What people think I expect from them as a dietitian:

1. "I expect perfection."
   Perfection is a trap, especially when it comes to wellness and nutrition. Expecting perfection can cause stress and a lack of acceptance for the inevitable human experience of mistakes and missteps. Striving for progress over perfection helps foster a more sustainable relationship with your goals.

2. "I am perfect myself."
   While it's good to hold yourself to a high standard, expecting perfection can lead to disappointment and burnout. Embracing imperfection and growth is key in any relationship, especially in the context of food, body image, and health. I say that I suffer from FOMO with food (fear of missing out) and trying all the food!

3. "I will compare one client to another."
   Comparisons are often unfair, unrealistic, and unproductive. Each person has a unique experience, body, and relationship with food. Comparing one person’s journey to another’s can only lead to frustration. Plus, I practice HIPAA (confidentiality) just as your doctor does.

But I will tell you, I DO have expectations for my clients:

1. "Show up and focus on our conversation."
Showing up is the first step, whether it’s for a session, a conversation, or a new habit. Reliability and commitment to the process are essential for meaningful progress. A healthy relationship with food and wellness is rooted in open dialogue—listening, sharing, and expressing needs. It’s not just about one person giving all the answers; it’s a partnership where both sides contribute.

2.   "Ask for what you need."
Needs change over time, and it’s okay to ask for support, advice, or understanding. Being clear about what you need is the first step in getting the help you deserve.

3. "Honesty."
A strong relationship thrives on honesty. Being truthful about goals, struggles, or confusion allows me, as your dietitian, to provide efficient personalized support.

In the world of wellness, it’s easy to fall into the trap of false expectations, whether it’s expecting perfection or trying to impose rigid rules on yourself and others. By shifting towards more realistic, open-minded expectations—focused on empathy, communication, and flexibility—you can cultivate a healthier, more enjoyable relationship with food and your body.

Want to connect?

1. Schedule a consultation with me! We can meet virtually or in person at Western Racquet. All pricing is available HERE.

2. Sign up for one of our FREE Wellbeing Workshops, which are often nutrition-focused! We have about 2 offerings per month. Check out our schedule HERE.

3. Follow us on Instagram @food.for.thought.wr for content focused on all things food and fighting back against diet culture.