Confidence shouldn't come with a size chart.
There are so many factors that can affect the way we see ourselves. We see advertisements that sway us into buying certain products. We read magazines that make us want to dress a certain way. We spend time at the gym to keep our heart rate up. But are all these things keeping our confidence up as well? To what extent does this affect the way we feel about ourselves?
I'm here to talk about positive ways that you can supercharge your body confidence.
Tip #1: Stop defining yourself by your clothing size.
The truth is we have to know our typical size in order to buy clothes (and take it from a gal who loves to shop). But the (often dreaded) size chart can have a big affect on a gal's confidence. When going shopping, try to stop thinking, "oh I really should be more like a 'size x,'" but rather take a few sizes into the fitting room and see what size looks best on your body. More often than not, women can fit into three or more sizes at any given weight.
Try this. Cut tags out of clothing or mark out sizes with a permanent marker. Wear whatever size makes you feel best in the outfit (a good tailor can be a gal's best friend!).
Tip #2: Commit to an exercise that you enjoy!
Many studies have shown over time that physical activity is a far more important predictor of health than body size is. Exercise is clearly good for a healthy body, but endorphins are great for a healthy mind. But rather than dreading working out, try to get those important 30 minutes of cardio/day doing something you enjoy!
If you don't like running, don't do it just because you have to. Try a different exercise: Zumba, spin, dance, or even test out the latest fad workout (aqua spin, anyone?) Doing something that you enjoy, and feel that you are good at, can be a great way to boost your body confidence (take another look in the mirror!).
Tip #3: Stop body-shaming yourself (and others).
Whether this type of talk is an inner monologue, or out loud, it never leads to anything positive. Instead of griping about your thighs that touch, or that extra skin under your bicep, try saying positive things to yourself about your body. "I have great eyes," "I can ROCK a pair of leather pants," or "my smile always makes other people smile." The more you remind yourself of the parts you love about yourself, the more you will put that energy out into the universe. If you are happy with yourself, people see that in you, and also internalize it to be happier with themselves. Look at that -- you started a confidence chain! Pay it forward.
Tip #4: Remember how much your body does for you.
The human body is most incredible. Be kind to your body, and be gentle with yourself. Every body is different, and you need to listen to your own. That said, there are general guidelines that you can apply to your life. Make sure your body is getting the rest it needs (we know that 8 hours is a good benchmark). Eat a varied and balanced diet (one that makes you feel satisfied, and includes the various nutrients that you need). Spend some time getting your heart rate up each day (do something you love!). The more you love your body, the better you will feel!
Most importantly, smile. It's the ultimate key to confidence