Consider these 10 “Will-Powers” for Improving Body Image. Taking care of your body and doing things you enjoy will enable you to enjoy a happy, participatory life.

 

1. Twice a day, everyday, I will ask myself: “Am I benefiting from focusing on what I believe are the flaws in my body weight or shape?”

 

2. I will think of three reasons why it is ridiculous for me to believe that thinner people are happier or

“better.” I will repeat these reasons to myself whenever I feel the urge to compare my body shape to someone else’s.

 

3. I will spend less and less time in front of mirrors–especially when they are making me feel uncomfortable and self-conscious about my body.

 

4. I will exercise for the joy of feeling my body move and grow stronger. I will not exercise simply to lose weight, purge fat from my body, or to “make-up for” calories I have eaten.

 

5. I will participate in activities that I enjoy, even if they call attention to my weight and shape. I will constantly remind myself that I deserve to do things I enjoy, like dancing, swimming, etc., no matter what my shape or size!

 

6. I will refuse to wear clothes that are uncomfortable or that I do not like but wear simply because they divert attention from my weight or shape. I will wear clothes that are comfortable and that make me feel comfortable in my body.

 

7. I will list 5-10 good qualities that I have, such as understanding, intelligence, or creativity. I will

Repeat these to myself whenever I start to feel bad about my body.

 

8. I will practice taking people seriously for what they say, feel, and do, not for how slender, or “well put together” they appear.

 

9. I will surround myself with people and things that make me feel good about myself and my abilities.

When I am around people and things that support me and make me feel good, I will be less likely to base my self-esteem on the way my body looks.

 

10. I will treat my body with respect and kindness. I will feed it, keep it active, and listen to its needs. I will remember that my body is the vehicle that will carry me to my dreams! I will choose to take care of myself and my body!

 

Adapted from Atlanta Center for Eating Disorders, written by Michael Levine, Ph.D., and Linda Smolak, Ph.D