5 LESSONS FROM THE FOUNDER OF WEIGHT WATCHERS

An inspirational woman and life changer to millions.

1. A small community act can turn into a global enterprise. Since childhood, Jean battled with being overweight. After countless fad diets, she realized that “it’s choice, not chance that determines your destiny”. From 214 pounds to 142 pounds, Jean Nidetch created group weight loss therapy sessions in her living room which turned into what is now known as Weight Watchers.

1. Be passionate in your work. In 1961, Jean went to an obesity clinic sponsored by the New York City Board of Health to gather weight loss tips. Disliking the way the clinic’s leader led the session and how little the attendees shared, she began hosting meetings in her living room to create a more supportive and comfortable environment.  By the following year, due to her passion to help others accomplish their health goals, her sessions were being held across the state of New York.

1. Within the painful moments in life, beauty arrives. As a child Jean never rode a merry-go-around or horse due to her weight. The pounds continued to piled on and she searched for and tried ever existing diet fad. Had she not endured her weight challenges and associated painful moments, perhaps Weight Watchers wouldn’t be around to help millions. She understood the challenges personally, and therefore was able to create a movement helping millions around the world.

1. Your past doesn’t dictate your future. Jean was born 1923 in Brooklyn to parents David and Mae Slutsky [a cab driver and manicurist]. In 1942, after the passing of her father, she dropped out of City College of New York. Nearly 3 decades later [1978], she sold Weight Watchers for 71 million to H.J. Heinz Co.  She became a celebrity, even appearing on The Johnny Carson show.

1.  Your business can take on a life of its own. What started as in-home weekly meetings in 1961 [establishing emotional support for friends battling to lose pounds and create healthy living], resulted in a global franchise. In 1968, Weight Watchers went public and became a household name.

Her greatest legacy was the millions of people who lost weight using the Weight Watchers method. She took great pride in sharing what worked for her personally with the world. She was passionate and gave her work her full heart.  Thank you Jean, your work and passion. It will continue to inspire us all.