Excellent post, Zach.
In the work I do, I find that helping my clients (gay or straight) connect with their deepest why or motivations is only a starting place. Over time helping them to connnect with how making healthier food and activity choices strengthens their mind and body. When they are doing what they do based on external input it takes a bit more time to help them connect with what’s truly best for them and their wellbeing… and to revisit that feeling-state often.