Although body positivity has taken off in a big way in recent years, many still let their weight hold them back. This article explores how to embrace your body so you can do the things you want to do that make you happy.
Your weight and worth are not and should not be intrinsically linked, and you should be able to do everything you want, no matter your dress size. That being the case, here are some things you can do to stop your weight holding you back, starting right now.
1. Changing Your Mindset
Before you embark on any journey towards weight management, it is vital to adjust your mindset. No one is saying this will be easy, but if you work on it, you will understand that your weight does not define you, and it should not be a parameter of your worth. Focus on the intrinsic motivations, like feeling healthier or having more energy, rather than purely aesthetic reasons, and you will soon stop worrying so much about the number on your scales.
2. Setting Realistic Goals
If you have been letting your weight hold you back for a long time, you need to start setting some goals to get you back on track to living better. For example, if you have stopped swimming because you don’t want to be seen in a bathing suit, you could set a goal to buy a suit you are comfortable with. Then, set another goal to try it on in front of the mirror, taking small steps until you can finally hit the pool.
3. Talk to a Professional
Sometimes, the issues related to weight are deeply rooted in psychological factors. In such cases, consulting a professional like David Tzall, PsyD, Clinical Psychologist, can be the best move you can make for yourself. You can explore your feelings about your weight and worth in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. They can help unravel underlying issues such as emotional eating or body dysmorphia and work with you to develop strategies to overcome these challenges effectively.
4. Building a Support Network
You are not alone in feeling the way you do about your weight, so why not seek out other people who have similar issues? Not only will you feel more comfortable talking to and hanging out with them, but they will also be the people who get you and hold you when you are feeling down; this can make a tremendous amount of difference.
5. Do It
Ultimately, if you don’t want your weight to hold you back, take a deep breath and go out there and do what you want. Most people are so busy they won’t be thinking about your weight, so what do you have to lose?
Whatever you weigh, get out there and live the life you want to!