5 Things I learned When I Stopped The Self Hate

When I first started this journey I made a habit of complimenting myself every time I had something negative to say about my appearance. Eventually, I started finding more to be grateful for than to criticize.

 

Of course, I would never say something mean to another person, but I took notice of their flaws. It’s amazing that when I found confidence in myself I found myself looking at the best in others, too. 

 

When you start feeling better about yourself, shopping isn’t the end of the world. Instead of crying because I didn’t fit into the sweater, I threw it back on the hanger and got a different size or style. Because you know what? Someone with your ideal body also tries on clothes that make a garbage bag look like a better choice. 

 

Do you have a body? Is it summer? Then you have a summer body! Find something that makes you feel comfortable, even if it’s a t-shirt, and hit the water with your kids! They’re only young once. Plus, 20 years from now you’ll look back on those times and long for the body you once had. 

 

Sure, I would be super happy if I lost some weight. But I would be even happier if I felt strong, healthy, and provided good food for my family. This is the first time I’ve really been able to stick to a diet because my mind isn’t thinking about everything I can’t eat. Instead, I’m focusing on how much better I feel. And of course, I throw in a cheat day every now and then! 

So, mom to mom, I challenge you to go one week being kind to yourself. If you find yourself starting up with the self-hate, give yourself a compliment. Also, put that negative thought in a sentence about your child. Saying that to your child sounds pretty horrible, right? So why say it about yourself? You and your body have done amazing things, it’s time to start loving it!