Unfortunately, women live in state of perplexity as we try to accept our own bodies and constantly struggle day to day with looking in the mirror. I personally spent the first half of my life either dieting or being chronically unhappy before I was able to finally embrace what I saw in the mirror.

That said, there’s nothing wrong with setting goals or making changes in a healthy way. However, it took a long time for me to undo years of subliminal messaging to realize that it’s okay that I look like a person instead of a walking edited image.

Just like anything, building confidence takes time. It all starts with learning to be comfortable and real with yourself. So these are some ways that I remind myself to feel good….

Focus on How you Feel

It’s true what they say, when you feel good, you look good. Don’t assess yourself on “bad” or “good” eating habits or your workout schedule. Truly scan your body and ask, “How do I feel today?” Focus on things that make you feel good like stretching before bed or taking a walk on your lunch. Then do it again. The main point of being active is just moving your body in a way that feels good to you. It doesn’t need to be an intensive HIIT Class…Just get out, Move, and Eat what makes you feel awesome!

Celebrate what you do love

Whether its your overall shape, strong arms, or toned legs, we all have something that we love to accentuate! Try to focus on acknowledging what makes you unique and beautiful from everyone else. Knowing you have something to be confident about only builds you up. Take those compliments with a thank you and keep your stride. Don’t let what you perceive as negative attributes steal your inner joy.

Practice Compliments instead of Comparison

Don’t make someones else fortune your down fall. Comparison is the thief of joy for a reason. It creates the idea that because another woman has something that we lack, we need to fix ourselves or that we are less desirable.

“Wow, She has ______. I really wish I had that.” 

Thinking like this only served to increase my own insecurities and my spending as well. Challenge yourself to compliment them instead. 

“Wow she looks amazing in that dress, she must feel great!’ 

Instead of questioning yourself, be happy for the simple fact that someone else feels good enough about themselves that they are letting their light shine in the world. It’s okay to take turns! There’s room in this world for all of us to shine.

Confront the Mirror

At one point in time I used to hate passing mirrors. Acknowledge what you don’t like but don’t criticize yourself either. Really look at yourself as a person, not an object. The creases and curves that make you who you are. Appreciate what makes you unique because that’s your superpower!

Treat it like a Temple

Our bodies are amazing at what they do. We can run, train, and connect intimately with each other. One way to feel good is to treat your body with the respect it deserves. Always honor what you want and what you need. This doesn’t get to be decided by anyone else but you! Pamper and Lavish yourself with the care you deserve, by you or others.