It is a scary fact that today one in two eight year old girls want to change their bodies and that we have created a culture that emphasises physical attractiveness as a sign of success. When was the last time you heard a woman or girl say something negative about her body or looks? When was the last time YOU had a negative thought about your body or your looks?
We have been battling our bodies for years striving for the ideal appearance. The problem is – the casualties of this ‘battle’ are ourselves. We lose head space, time, energy, perspective and confidence and become our own worst enemy. What’s more, this is what we role model for our next generation of girls. So what can we do about it?
First of all, draw a line in the sand and make the decision that YOU are so much more than what you look like or the shape of your butt. You are a whole person and your feelings, intent, passions, talents and heart matter so much more. Your body is not WHO you are – it is your vehicle for navigating your way through daily life.
Secondly, make a commitment to learn to love yourself and your body, because when you love something you look after it. Just as when you love a friend you take care of and nurture the friendship, and love begins with kindness. Some of the ways that you can do this are:
- Put yourself first and make friends with the word ‘no’ – people pleasing is the opposite to self-love.
- Instead of criticising and doubting yourself and ask yourself this very powerful question … “What would love say to me right now.”
- Write three things on your mirror (with whiteboard texta) every day that you have gratitude for and appreciate. Make them about your body, life, what you have and who’s in your life.