Top100DatingPersonals.com

Sculpting Your Esteem

by Tara Maclay

When I was younger I often made cracks about how my life would be so much better if Hoover made a vacuum that I could suck out all the extra fat out with. Now that I'm a little older, I've come to more of a détente with myself but I, like most women still struggle with body image issues.

In fact, study after study shows that unlike most men, women are rarely satisfied with their appearance and are always seeking a better body image. Read any newspaper, online article, or see any television ad and you will see women, regardless of age, race or other variable, complaining and looking for ways to change their bodies.

So what can we do about it?

If you are like me, and you want off the body hate train try out these 6 Body Image Boosters and tame some of your inner demons for good.

1. Stop Negative Self-Talk Immediately.

While you still may not like what you see in the mirror, learning to describe yourself with neutral, objective phrases can help stop the cycle of poor self-esteem. So, instead of thinking, "I am a BLIMP!" think, "My thighs could use a little exercise to tone them up."

2. Focus On The Things You Like About Your Looks.

It's best not to link your looks to your self-esteem, but with body image so intimately entwined with self-image in our society, that can be hard to do. The next best thing is to find something about your physical body you really like. It can be shimmering hair, beguiling eyes, great legs or a fabulous smile. Find the things about yourself you can say something good about, and every time you look in the mirror, go there first and say something positive to yourself.

3. Treat Yourself Like Your Best Friend.

We often treat our friends with more respect and kindness than we treat ourselves, so start thinking of yourself as your best friend and more importantly - start TREATING yourself that way. Would you respect and care about a person who says about you what you are saying about yourself? If the answer is no, then begin treating yourself at least as well as you are treating others in your life.

4. Say What You Mean.

Sometimes, hating your thighs is all about wanting thinner thighs. But sometimes, negative body thoughts are a way of expressing discontent over other issues in your life. Learn to decode these messages, and tune into yourself and work on these instead of beating yourself up.

5. Dress The Part.

If you're putting off buying new clothes until you like your body better -- don't. Whether you're bursting at the seams in duds that are too tight or swimming in oversized clothing to hide your body, you are eroding your self-esteem. Buy what fits you, and look the very best you can. It sends a powerful message to yourself that you are worth it!

6. Appreciate Your Body

Recognize that people naturally come in different shapes and sizes, and cherish your body's uniqueness.

YOU are special just as you are. Learn to honor yourself as the special individual you are.

Back to Article Index