With winter behind us, spring break upon us, and the midpoint of the semester looming overhead, it's easy to succumb to the negative effects of being cooped up, stuck in the cold, stressing over midterms, and feeling like whatever you do, it's just not enough. Summer is just around the corner, and if you're like the majority of people I know (myself included), you might also find your thoughts somewhere among the realm of “Literally how in the world is it bikini season again already," and “Oh my gosh I look like an actual beached whale." If you catch yourself thinking these things, don't sweat it— I've got some words of encouragement for you:
1. You are your own harshest critic.
This cliché, overused statement is actually true. Stacey Tantleff-Dunn, PhD studies body image and eating behaviors at the University of Central Florida and says, “Many of us suffer from distorted body images; we just don't see ourselves realistically. As your own worst critic, you are more likely to focus on self-perceived flaws than anyone else is." You might find comfort in the fact that sometimes your mind just sees and feels things that don't exist. It's rare that your perception of yourself is actually the way others perceive you.
2. Root yourself in self-love.
Well what does that even mean? It means that in everything you do that might challenge and test you, remind yourself of your strengths. You probably have a really gorgeous smile, a sassy stride when you walk, beautiful brown eyes, or “legs for days". Whatever it is that you find yourself feeling insecure about, counter that negative thought with something you adore about yourself. Let that radiate through your body, from the pretty little hairs on your head, to the toes on your feet.
3. Make small efforts to better the things about yourself you don't like.
As someone who consistently lacks motivation and is often terrified of change, I'm the first to admit that it's intimidating to think about all the major decisions people suggest in order to get healthier: go to the gym every day, cut out carbs, drink approximately 128 bottles of water a day. It's scary at first, but in reality, it doesn't have to be. Focus on simple, small-scale, every day alterations to your routine. This could be resisting your downtown hibachi craving, picking water over sweet tea (I swear it's so addictive), maybe cut back on your bread consumption and choose to walk to class instead of driving or taking a shuttle. Minor adjustments over time can lead to major results in the way you look, act, and feel. BUT, know that it doesn't make you wrong to eat a slice of pizza (or the entire box).
4. Be yourself, unapologetically.
Kid Cudi said it best, “In the end they'll judge me anyway, so whatever." I'm a firm believer in shamelessly embracing and becoming whichever version of yourself is best, even if that means some people don't “approve." I'm in a class this semester, in which my professor challenged us to determine our “core values"—what ideals and principles are really at the root of you? Even if it takes making a list of those values, the things you take pride in about yourself, or what you hope to see in others, figure it out and stand by it. “If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything.
5. Radiate positivity to others.
Studies show that partaking in even the smallest acts of kindness toward other people improves your mood and self-esteem. On a college campus, it's so easy to get involved in positive ways that will not only help other people, but will brighten your day as well! This could take form in the wide variety of philanthropy events held by sororities and fraternities, or fundraisers and benefits for other student organizations. Helping other people is a reminder of how much of an impact you can have when you put your good intentions to great use. Don't think you have the time or energy for that Saturday morning 5k? You can show kindness to others in simple ways, everyday—a compliment on your classmate's hair, an encouraging text to your best friend, a smile to a passing stranger on campus, or buying a coffee for the stressed person behind you in line at Starbucks.
While it often feels easier to resort to negative thoughts about yourself, I challenge you instead to speak and think positively. Remember that if you want the bikini bod, you can get it. Remember that you have just as much worth, with or without the supermodel figure. And remember that you're always beautiful, purposeful, and important, whether you think so or not!
