Having a positive body image doesn’t always have to mean having a washboard stomach or having an hourglass figure. Comparing yourself to others is almost a surefire way to hurt your own view of your body. Instead, we should all focus on ourselves and our own personal goals and opinions. That way, we can all be satisfied and comfortable in our own skin. So let’s start with these simple steps:
- Ask yourself, “Do I benefit myself from focusing on my perceived flaws in my body?”
- Give yourself three reasons why it’s absurd to compare yourself and your level of content with someone thinner than you. You should focus on your goals and your happiness, not on others.
- Stop checking the mirror so frequently. Progress comes one-step at a time, not all at once. It’s unhealthy to expect overnight results.
- Workout to build strength and health. This way, all your workouts are about positive gains, as opposed to negative loss, like weight loss or calorie burning.
- Dress in clothes that make you feel comfortable and at ease with your body. Don’t change or alter your wardrobe to take attention away from parts of your body’s shape or size.
- Don’t be ashamed to do activities you like, even if they might bring attention to your weight. No one should feel ashamed of his or her body while running, swimming, or even dancing in public.
- Focus on all of your good qualities, not just the physical. Whenever you feel down about your body image, just think about all the other traits that make you special.
- Surround yourself with positivity. If you keep encouragement around you, in the form of friends and family, you will be able to push yourself harder to achieve any and all goals you set for yourself.
- And above all, respect yourself and your body.
