How To Love Your Body And Gain Confidence

“You should love yourself”– nearly every woman existing has heard these words. Songs have been sung about it, and even courses/classes have been dedicated to helping people “love their bodies”.

As women, we are told to love our bodies and be confident. But societal standards have made it quite difficult for us to do so. People tell us to love our bodies, but at the same time they say “you are too skinny, eat something” or “you are too fat, you should stop eating”.

The expectations and standards are like an anchor holding us back from freely expressing ourselves and being confident. But if you’d like to break off that anchor, be confident, and love your body, here’s how you can do it.

Say No To Criticism

We are our own biggest critic most times. Especially when we let what others say or think about our bodies influence our perception of our bodies. Stop immediately if you catch yourself staring at the mirror and criticizing parts you don’t like.

You may not be comfortable with parts of your body but criticizing, and nitpicking won’t change that. It will only further destroy your confidence and self-esteem.

Criticism does more harm than good, do not indulge in it.

Figure Out Exactly What You Don’t Like

No one looks at themselves and says, “I hate every single thing about my body”. There’s usually one particular thing that robs you of your peace; it could be your teeth; maybe you feel they aren’t white or straight enough.

Maybe it’s your boobs; you may feel like they aren’t big enough or perky. Whatever feature or features you don’t like, you need to single it out and figure out exactly why you don’t like it.

Could it be because you are comparing that feature to another person’s? Perhaps a friend. Or do you feel it’s not trendy or up to societal standards?

When you figure out the feature, you don’t like and why you don’t like it, you can start to unlearn the dislike you possess. Take your time to remove any inbuilt hatred you may have for your body because of what others say or what you feel it should be like.

Fake It Till You Don’t Have To

We know this may not sound plausible, but it is. One sure way to become more confident is to act like you already are. Wear what you like and walk into any room with your head held high and a thousand-watt smile. Own it; if you believe you look good, others will too.

With time the confidence comes naturally without you having to fake it. It takes some time, but practice makes perfect.

Focus On What You Love

As hard as loving your body might be, there are some features you have that you love. It could be your legs, thighs, etc. Instead of focusing on what you can’t fix, focus on what you don’t want to.

Wear clothes or makeup that accentuate those features you love so much. Don’t hesitate to flaunt them, remember you only live once, so you must live it to the full.

Be Accepting

Our imperfections are what make us beautiful. Acceptance sets you on a straight path to loving your body. Realize that just because you don’t like your body doesn’t make it ugly. What is ugly is your mindset, and you must be rid of it.

Live And Breathe Positivity

Negative thoughts and words play a crucial role in how we see ourselves. If you let your world be filled with negativity, you will never be happy with yourself.

So, stop saying negative things to yourself. Is anyone repeatedly making you feel bad about your body? Cut them off! Stay as far away as possible from such people. If you can’t stay far away, find a way to drown out whatever negative words they say to you.

Surround yourself with people that make you feel good, tell you positive things and allow you to be your authentic self.

Take Care Of Yourself

As you strive to accept your physique, remember to care for all of you. That includes your physical, emotional and mental well-being.

Indulge in activities that make you feel good. Go to the gym, do yoga, skateboard, ice skate, etc. The list is endless.

When you work out, your body releases endorphins. These chemicals make you feel good. A good workout routine will do wonders for your body and confidence.

Try to be as healthy as possible- eat right and sleep tight.

Spend Some Time Away From Social Media

You may not know it, but social media can create negative feelings in us towards our appearance. When we see others with seemingly perfect bodies and lives, we may start to compare ourselves with them.

Comparison is the predecessor to unhappiness. The second you compare, you will never be happy with your appearance. So sometimes, it’s best to take a little social media detox.

Dedicate your time to other wholesome activities like reading.

Let Go

Free yourself from unrealistic expectations and standards. Don’t think, “why don’t I have……like other women”. You are not other women; you are unique.

Free yourself from the shackles of “why don’t I haves” and embrace the “I’m glad I haves”. Let go of the idea of how your body is meant to look. Societal standards don’t define you.

Positive Affirmations

The only words with the power to affect your notion about yourself should be your words. Rewire your brain to be filled with positivity. The more positive you are, the happier you’ll be; in turn, your confidence will soar.

Look in the mirror every morning and say good things about your body. Tell yourself you’re beautiful and believe it because it’s true. Tell yourself your body is perfect, and rightfully so.

There is power in your words and thoughts. Don’t hesitate to exploit and harness that power.

Loving your body and becoming confident won’t happen in a week or two. It takes time, so be patient with yourself, be accepting and positive.

While you try to achieve your goal, remember you are perfect, and no one should tell you otherwise.