Choreographer Ganesh Acharya, who has lost around 98 kilos in 1.5 years, credited actor and close friend Akshay Kumar for motivating him to change his . “Akshay changed me totally. Main bahut hi bigda hua ladka tha (I was a spoiled boy). Spoiled in the sense that I used to stay awake till 3 am for work…I had a different system…I was obese…” he said.
“He taught me how to stay fit…he taught me how to sleep early…and wake up early…work is worship for him…he has taught me how work and sincerity are big virtues…so, Akshay is more than a , he is someone who has taken care of me…” Ganesh told Mirchi Plus.
Taking a cue from his admiration for Akshay, how can friends help you break unhealthy habits?
When someone lovingly handholds you out of bad habits, it becomes a classic example of care and support.
Their belief in your potential can give you the strength and motivation you lacked, said Dr Santosh Bangar, senior consultant psychiatrist, Gleneagles Hospitals, Parel, .
“It is not just about quitting the habit; it’s about feeling seen, valued, and not alone in your journey. What truly matters is how they support you, patiently, without or pressure or even getting angry and frustrated. Their approach should inspire, not control you. This approach will help one achieve the target — whether it is weight loss, de-addiction, giving up on vices, or fulfilling one’s dream,” said Dr Bangar.
This kind of support helps to build trust and an emotional bond between two people. You start to grow together, and the bond evolves from just companionship to true friendship or . “When someone creates space for your better habits and growth, it is out of respect and to improve the overall well-being,” shared Dr Bangar.
Over time, you don’t just change for yourself, you evolve because someone believed you could, and you have achieved the .
