I’ll be the first to admit, it’s difficult to make lifestyle changes. The summer is the number one season for dieting and weight loss. Unfortunately, many people have the wrong idea about the ideal body for the summer.

The truth is, there is no “ideal” body. You may have a picture in your head of some girl you found on Pinterest or some guy on the cover of a fitness magazine but stop right there. You don’t need to be that. In fact, you can’t.

The best body is the body you’re in. And when it’s given some TLC, it gets even better. It comes in two forms: physical and mental.

The best thing you can do physically for your body is give it the right fuel. Give your body what it deserves. It needs nutrients, exercise, and sleep. But you know what kills weight loss the most? Stress. It slows you down and makes it incredibly difficult to accomplish your goals.

You can have fun that involves physical activities or ways to incorporate healthier eating without becoming a health-crazy maniac. Try some new water sports or learn how to make acai bowls at home. Join a gym, but enjoy your post-workout smoothie instead of feeling guilty about it. And if you want to treat yourself, just do it. If it’s in moderation, it’s fine. You're not doing any damage.

Most importantly, love yourself every step of the way. Many people diet or go on crazy health kicks to create a short-term solution to a long-term problem. It’s the same reason people spend hundreds of dollars every year on extensions, hair dye, or expensive clothes. You have to love yourself for who you are, not your appearance.

Sure, everyone wants to look nice, but if you’re saying you can’t live a day without your makeup or refuse to wear a swimsuit because you think you look bad, then there’s a bigger problem to be addressed. Love yourself for who you are inside, not out. Love yourself for your character, your skills, and your heart.

After all, when you’re 80 and you’re past the stage of “beach bods,” that’s what truly matters.

Construct your goals for the summer around experiences rather than numbers on a scale or inches on a tape measure. You’ve got one life to live, and if you’re miserably dieting and obsessing over your looks, you’re not really living.

So to that, I say, “screw the beach bod and have some fun”. Make this summer about the smile rather than the stomach.