The holiday season is a fun time of the year. There’s so much going on and there is always a lot to look forward to with visiting loved ones who you may have not seen throughout the year.
But there also can be some negativity when it comes to a person dealing with their body image. With the holidays right around the corner, some of you may be having mixed feelings about seeing family members during the holidays.
It’s not that you don’t want to see them, but it’s that time of year where those little comments come out like, “You’ve gotten little heavier!” or “You’ve put on some weight” or “You look different.” Now, these comments are not meant to be hurt your self-esteem in anyway. However, for those battling eating disorders, it’s comments like these that can make you feel uncomfortable and lack confidence. Trust me, I know. It’s also not just the comments that can get in the way, but the mental comparisons that you can have about yourself when you look at your other family members.
When you are around everyone, you’re quick to think about how you measure up, you may also be quick to feel like you’re not beautiful. Yes, it’s all of these feelings that can come up for those battling with eating disorders or those who are on the brink of developing them.
But today, for those of who may get these types of feelings, I want to offer you five pieces of advice to help you love yourself more and to put the focus back on enjoying your family during this amazing season.
- Make a list of all of the reasons why you are grateful for the way you are. If you are the type of person who gets irritated by the comments of your loved ones, I would suggest making this list before you meet everyone. I guarantee you this will change your perspective about yourself and the positive notions you have about yourself will stay in your mind as you meet your loved ones.
- Don’t make comparisons. I know this is so easy to say, but you are unique. There is no person like you on this earth. Therefore, embrace your uniqueness. Love yourself and your body. You are perfect just the way you are and there is no need for you to make measure to hurt yourself.
- Don’t listen to everyone’s comments.Some people just like to talk and they don’t realize what’s coming out of their mouths. Therefore, don’t pay them any mind. You have to start feeling comfortable with yourself and being confident in who you are. As you do, these little comments will roll out of your mind.
- Don’t focus on the negativity. Not everyone in your family or in your pack of friends is always going to be positive. Sometimes people are going through different things in their lives and they may say things that they wouldn’t necessarily say otherwise. There are always negative things that can happen that can make you mad, irritated, or put you in a bad mood, but don’t let them. You have the power over what you think.
- Don’t count calories.Try to enjoy eating and being around your family. The year is stressful enough with everything going on so embrace this time for what it is and truly live in the moment.
I hope this list helps you and that you have a great holiday season! Remember, no one can bring you down unless you give them permission to do so. You control your thoughts, not them. Happy Holidays!
This post was also posted on Proud2BMe.
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