In a media crazed world it is getting harder and harder to achieve a positive body image. Women want so much to look like this or that model; they want those legs; someone else’s butt. When will it stop? There is much more to having a positive body image than what you and others see on the outside of your body. A positive self image begins on the inside. Our body image is who we are on the inside; our emotions; hopes and dreams; everything that defines who we are not just what we look like. If this is your struggle here are some pointers for helping you find a positive body image.
1.Stop the negative talk. Although you think that not liking what you see in the mirror is just a physical thing it is not. It stems much deeper than your physical appearance. The more you tell yourself you don’t like this, or you don’t like that the more you will believe it. Instead of telling yourself that you hate this or that, tell yourself what you like. Or even better, tell yourself what you will do to get rid of what it is you don’t want.
2.Respect yourself. Ask yourself a question, “would you treat or talk to others the same way you are treating yourself?” If your answer is no then something needs to change. You should respect yourself as much as you respect your family members and friends. Be kind and forgiving of your own behaviors just as you would someone else.
3.Establish realistic goals. In order to get anywhere in life you must have realistic goals. Do not set yourself up for failure. Start by changing small things such as the way you talk to yourself. Set weekly or monthly goals so that you always have something to work towards. And don’t be too hard on yourself if you fail to meet a goal. Don’t make it a habit of course, but remember that tomorrow is a new day and strive to live up to what you have set your goals to be.
4.Value your strengths. If you are used to telling yourself how much you don’t like this or that, then this may be hard for you to d, but it is possible. Everyone was born with strengths; discover what they are and build on them. Use them to help others around you. Use them to boost your self esteem and feel more confident in who you are.
5. Change your look. If you are waiting to buy new clothes until your body looks the way you want it to, don’t. You could be waiting a very long time as most of us never reach that “perfect” body. The more you put off buying some in style or more fashionable clothes, the more negatively you see yourself. Fashion trends come in all shapes and sizes so go out and find things that look good on you. You can also find some helpful fashion tips online as to what colors, shades, and kinds of clothes will look good on your type of body. You don’t have to be pencil thin to look great so take the plunge.
6.Uniqueness.Recognize while on your quest for a more positive body image that everyone is unique; everyone comes in different shapes and different sizes. Only 2% of American women fall into the category of a supermodel body shape and size. Celebrate yourself and your uniqueness.
