How to cope with a roommate while dieting?

I’ve started a diet three days ago, but my roommate keeps eating chips and chocolate in the living room as if on purpose. Last night, while he was watching TV, I thought, ā€˜I’ll just have one piece, what’s the harm?’ and then I unknowingly ate half a bag of chips. His eating habits are really affecting me, and I’m confused about how to handle this situation. What do you recommend to help me focus on my diet?

Ah ah, it’s such a tough thing to deal with these kinds of situations during a diet. I don’t think it used to be like this before. People were more understanding, you know? Can’t your roommate make a little sacrifice just because you’re on a diet? Now everyone is in that ā€˜I just want to enjoy myself’ mindset. Honestly, I think they need to learn a bit of empathy.

Let me ask you something: have you ever told your roommate ā€œI’m on a diet, would you mind not eating those kinds of things around me?ā€ Because if they don’t know, they live in their own home too, and it feels to me like they shouldn’t have to act according to your preferences.

@skeptik_hesapci actually, I said on the first day that I started the diet, and I even asked, ā€˜should we plan the meal together?’ but they didn’t really care.

@romantik_nostaljik I think this situation is not quite like the difference between the past and now. The issue is that your roommate does not respect boundaries. This is a lack of empathy. You ask for something, and they immediately disregard it. Saying ā€˜I’ll do what I please’ is a serious problem. Everyone’s life and choices need to find balance in a shared space.

I think don’t complicate things. Just prepare your own snacks in the kitchen: nuts, dried apricots, yogurt seasoned vegetable chips, etc. If your roommate is indulging in junk food, bring these out. It sends the message, ā€˜I mean, enjoy yourself, but I have my alternatives ready.’ The longer you talk about it, the less they’ll understand anyway.