I, like most people, have a love-hate relationship with New Year’s resolutions. While I do believe some to be effective (read a book a week, spend less time on social media), others are less effective than we wish to believe.
In today’s society, we are faced with the pressure to be the best. And when it comes to New Year’s resolutions, this pressure only increases with the emergence of crash diets and exercise routines that our bodies probably just aren’t ready for. This also tends to lead to copious thoughts of self-judgment and the all-consuming thought of “What if I fail?”
As soon as we realize our current situation isn’t what we would like it to be, we automatically blame ourselves. An endless list emerges of all the things we wish we could be doing differently: “I wish I hadn’t been so lazy yesterday,” or “I shouldn’t have ordered that pizza last night,” or “If I worked out more, I would get more attention from boys.”
The truth of the matter is – we need to stop letting this critical voice run wild in our heads. Beating yourself up doesn’t make anything better. In fact, it makes things worse and we end up in a seemingly endless cycle of self-judgment and blame.
We live in a culture overrun with thoughts about diet and body consciousness. Just check your Instagram or Facebook feed and see for yourself. I would be shocked if you didn’t see at least one post about “How to lose 10 pounds in a week!” or “Beat the guilt this holiday season!” It’s nearly impossible to ignore these subtle messages because we live in a society with such high expectations. I go to a school where everyone is literally perfection – how could you not feel guilty about eating the third, fourth, or fifth slice of pizza at 3 a.m.? Unfortunately, I feel as though the majority of women do struggle with their body image – but we can lessen these thoughts and promote more positive ones.
What does society need more of? Body positivity.
You can love yourself and you can love your body for the way it is. You are more than a pants size or a number on the scale. You can love yourself for just the way you are – nothing about you has to change.
Stop letting that one comment someone made determine how you feel about yourself.
So, someone made a nasty comment about your appearance. People are mean. Do not let them determine your self-worth and impact your self-confidence.
Appreciate your body for all the things it can do.
You can run, you can walk, you can play tennis, golf, lacrosse, do Pure Barre, yoga. Every time you do something active, think about how grateful you are to have such a healthy and active body.
What matters is how you feel, not how you look.
You are more than a number on the scale. Once you grasp that concept, you’ll find it easier to build a truly loving relationship with your body.
Make a pact to not compare your body.
This seems impossible. And of course, as women, we are bound to fall into these habits of “But she’s so much prettier/skinnier/hotter/tanner (etc.…) than me!” Stop these thoughts – it’ll only make you feel inadequate.
Take a break from social media.
Make a cognizant effort to not constantly be on your phone. Be in the moment and appreciate others around you.
Embrace compliments.
When someone compliments you, don’t doubt them. Embrace the compliment, say thank you, and move on without dwelling.
Talk about other amazing qualities your friends have besides their looks.
I have the most beautiful best friends in the world. The best part? They’re incredible inside and out – take time to compliment people on their inner beauty as well. After all, that’s what truly makes us who we are.
Think positive.
Instead of dwelling on the past or imaging the worst, think about the good things in your life. Remain optimistic.
