How to Focus Less on Body Image & Negative Thoughts

The Ugliness of Body Image

It’s common for someone to look in the mirror, see something they don’t like, and think negatively about their body. Having a negative body image affects millions of people struggling with eating disorders and body dysmorphic disorder. We all know that we shouldn’t spend so much time worrying about what’s on the outside, but don’t always know how to fix the problem. So we try to tell ourselves not to worry, to be happy with ourselves, and stop comparing ourselves to others, but, we still cling to those negative thoughts. Beating ourselves down about our bodies doesn’t help us. It creates problems ranging from mild displeasure to serve depression.

So how can we fix this? Making a change from a negative thinking mentality to a positive one, so that you can learn to embrace your worth and love your body. So if you tired of beating yourself down and want to focus less on body image. Here are some steps you can take to get you closer and focus less on body image and negative thoughts.

Take Note of Negative Thinking & Develop Positive Counterstatements

Start by taking note of the things that you are paying attention to because you can’t change what you don’t notice. Key into what your mind is always focusing on throughout the day. Take note of your self-talk, self-limiting behaviors, and listen for negative patterns in your head. Then write them down. Once you’ve written them down work on changing those negative thoughts into positive thoughts. For example, if you’re constantly telling yourself “I’m fat” change that to “I’m perfect” and repeat that over and over to yourself and out loud when you get the chance. Changing negative thoughts isn’t an overnight process and takes time and persistence. So don’t give up because you deserve to think positively of yourself.

Find Your Triggers

Know what triggers negative feelings or feelings of inadequacy. If it’s TV, social media, or the fashion industry try to steer clear of them for a while but that doesn’t mean avoid it completely. Just be mindful of what you’re exposing yourself to.

Don’t Try to Be Perfect

Practice accepting yourself by not judging yourself based on your appearance. There is a lot more to a person than what size they wear or how much they weigh. Focus on your strengths and attributes instead and be grateful for what you do have.

Focus on the Bigger Picture

We live in a world that puts a great deal of focus on how we look. But, there are lots of things that are more important than how we look. Trying to get out of your head and doing something meaningful. Go, volunteer at a homeless shelter, visit someone in a nursing home, or help with relief efforts overseas. Doing things likes these will completely change your perspective of what matters.

Have you ever felt dissatisfied about your body? If so, what are the steps you’ve taken to beat negative thinking?

Related post: 5 Self-help Strategies to Improve Body Image

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