OK, ladies and gents. It's time to address an issue close to my heart. I know it's been addressed many times, but here goes...

I think many would agree that we live in a world that is self-driven. Every decision we make, society has ingrained in us to ask how will this affect me? How does this add to my success? Will this reflect well on me? Will I be satisfied? Will this make me happy?

Me, me, me, me, me, me.

It disgusts me to realize that I am subject to following after selfish desires time and time again. I don't want to live every day making decisions as if I am looking in a mirror... seeing the results in terms of my own reflection.

Anyways, this leads to me the relevant issue of body image. I start and end each day by looking in a mirror. Every day it's up to me to choose who I see in that mirror. Will a see a confident woman ready to conquer the day's tasks and envelop others in love? Or will I see the flaws in my beauty?

If I'm honest, body image is something I've always struggled with. Maybe it's because I place extreme pressure on myself because I know there is a standard in the dance industry. To some extent this is good. I love feeling sore because I know it means I worked hard. But other times, I'm left feeling empty and unwanted when I determine myself as 'not skinny enough' to get a specific dance role.

If I just toned up this, I bet my lines would look better while dancing. If I just lost 5-10 pounds, I could make that cast.

Man, what a toxic battle this can be. If you are constantly body shaming yourself, you are living in a world of desolation.

Looks are fleeting; Character is not.

Today let yourself be reminded that no matter the body-type the good Lord gave ya, there's a way better direction to focus your energy. What is that spark inside of you that others can't help but to smile when around you? Guarantee you it's not your size or how many pounds show up on that scale. I bet you it's your heart. Your joy, your kindness, your humor, your fun-loving self.

Perception is a reality. If you choose to focus on your flaws, then that's all you'll see and really, all you'll be. You'll be leaving behind so much unfulfilled potential to be your best self all-around. Don't limit yourself by feeding into the negative energy and lies surrounding the kind of person you really are.

Next time you look in that mirror, choose love. Then you'll see what you're really capable of.