Like it or not, body image affects your everyday life. The way you see yourself influences your career, relationships, and social interactions. More than 90 percent of young women want to change at least one aspect of their physical appearance. About 13 percent of girls under 17 admit having an eating disorder. The average size of the perfect woman – as portrayed by models – is 13 to 19 percent below healthy weight. These numbers may seem shocking, but they reflect the world we live in.
If you’re unhappy with your weight or overall appearance, train your brain to love your body. Here are some tips to consider:
Embrace Your Flaws
Self-acceptance is the key to positive changes. Guilt, criticism, and hate are the most damaging patterns. Thus, it’s important to accept your body the way it is. Embrace your flaws and focus on the positive. Take in the big picture; become aware of what your body can do each day. Be its best friend and supporter, not its enemy.
Give Your Best Every Day
Go to the gym and work out hard. Lift weights to get strong and do exercises you’ve never tried before. Do your best at work and impress your boss. These things will boost your confidence, making you aware of what you can accomplish.
Ground Yourself with Healthy Habits
Get off the diet-binge roller coaster and change your eating habits. Remember that you have a choice. Nourish your body with quality food, pamper yourself, and stay active. Make exercise a habit. Do these things because you want to, not because you have to.
Compliment Your Body
Start every day with a compliment. Say nice things about yourself and the way you look, such as “I have beautiful shapes,” “My body is toned and my skin looks amazing,” or “I have gorgeous eyes and full lips.” The whole point is to take the focus off your flaws and appreciate your strengths.
