Stop Fantasy Thinking

Do you ever hear yourself saying, "If I'd just lose 10 pounds I'd be happy," or "If I had thinner thighs I'd be asked out more." Stop those thoughts now! That is fantasy thinking. The truth is that there is room for all shapes and sizes in this world. People are attracted to others for a variety of reasons. Yes, sometimes attraction has to do with body, but that might be a smile or overall appearance. Others are attracted to another based on the energy they give off or their laugh or because they are funny. Your body is not the reason you are miserable. You were miserable first and took it out on your body. Get on with your life. Be loving, and you will attract loving people.

Focus on the Positives.

Hating the body can become a bad habit. All our negative feelings are instantly transferred to the body. Instead of dealing with the problems that create the negative feelings, we just shove those feelings deep inside our body and end up hating it more and more. Learning to focus on the positives gives you a whole different perspective. It allows you to see the world half-full instead of half-empty. Focus on the good in your life. Admire the beauty of a sunset, walk along the water, stop and smell the roses. Begin to focus on your body. See the good in it. It gets you where you are going. It is a faithful companion. By focusing on the positive we begin to heal our negative body image.

Learn to Compliment Others.

In learning to compliment others, you learn the law of reciprocity. As you give, you do receive. By learning to acknowledge the good in others, you can learn to notice the good in yourself. Remember, to be loved, give love. To be accepting of your body, be accepting of others' bodies.

Affirmations.

Along with self-talk, giving yourself positive affirmations is a powerful way to change the way you feel about your body. Find a part of your body that you like and accept, even if it's your eyes, hair or smile. Write an affirmation about it. For instance, "I love the way my hair shines," or "I love the way my eyes sparkle." Look at yourself in the mirror every morning and repeat your affirmations to yourself. Say them with enthusiasm. Believe it! Even if you have to "fake it till you make it." After a few weeks of doing this, you will come to believe and know that what you are saying is true. Then move on to another body part. Even though giving yourself compliments may become progressively more difficult, continue through until you LOVE YOUR BODY!