Are you happy with your body? Do you know someone who has a body you’re envious of, but they’re not happy? Are there dangers in spending too much time focusing on your body?
Recognize that bodies come in all different shapes and sizes. There is no one “right” body size. Your body is not, and should not, be exactly like anyone else’s. Try to see your body as a facet to your uniqueness and individuality. Consider giving up your goal of achieving the “perfect” body and work at accepting your body.
ONE: Be aware of the negative self-talk about your body. Respond to your negative thoughts with an affirmation. For example, rather than thinking, “I look gross,” sustitute a positive affirmation such as “I accept myself the way I am” or “I’m a worthwhile person, fat and all.”
TWO: Remeber that your body size, shape or weight does not determine your identity or worth as a person. You are more than just a body. Expand the view of yourself to include qualities such as sensitive, patient, caring, artistic, etc.
THREE: Be assertive with others who comment on your body. Let people know that comments on your physical appearance are not appreciated. Confront people who tease others about their bodies.
FOUR: Focus on the ways your body enables you to participate in life. Appreciate how your body functions rather than obsessing on its appearance. For example, appreciate that your arms enable you to hold your loved ones, your legs enable you to walk, etc.
FIVE: Find friends who are not overly concerned with weight or appearance.
SIX: Aim for lifestyle mastery, rather than mastery over your body appearance. Lifestyle mastery involves developing your unique gifts and potential, expressing yourself, developing meaningful relationships, learning to problem solve, establishing goals and contributing to life. View exercise and balanced eating as aspects of lifetime self-care.
SEVEN: Focus on the qualities you like in yourself that are not related to appearance. Spend time developing these capacities rather than letting your appearance define your identity and your worth.
