Mommy bloggers, have you ever considered the impact your self-talk has on your little ones? A recent viral post is shedding light on this very issue, emphasizing that the way we perceive and discuss our own bodies can significantly influence our daughters. According to a study by Dove, a staggering 72% of daughters glean their understanding of beauty from their mothers. This week, a powerful Facebook post is driving that point home beautifully.
An Eye-Opening Moment
In an eye-opening moment, Jenna Thompson found herself in a Target dressing room alongside her young daughter, Ellie. While trying on swimsuits, Jenna snapped pictures to send to her friends, jokingly asking for their opinions. However, when Ellie turned to the mirror and exclaimed, “Wow! I just love this pattern! Do you think I look pretty?!” Jenna was struck by the realization: her daughter was simply echoing what she had heard. If Jenna had been lamenting her own body, Ellie might have mirrored those negative thoughts instead.
The Power of Words
“I tell her she’s beautiful every day,” Jenna shares. “But in those vulnerable moments, I have the power to choose my words. I can either say, ‘Ugh, I’ve gained weight,’ or ‘I love how this color looks on me!’ Those words are what stick in her mind.” It’s a crucial lesson for all of us grappling with body image issues: the messages we tell ourselves are the same ones we’re passing down to our kids.
Connecting with Other Mothers
Jenna expresses her surprise at the overwhelming response to her post. “It’s incredible to connect with so many mothers and women who resonate with this message. My heart is full!” She describes Ellie as both her partner in mischief and her best friend.
Be a Role Model
“Be a role model when it comes to body image,” Jenna advises. “I’m not a size zero, and that’s perfectly fine. I have curves, and my body is a testament to strength and capability—I created another human being! I want Ellie to look in the mirror and confidently say, ‘Wow! I look beautiful!’ because every girl deserves that feeling.”
Explore More on Self-Love
If you’re interested in exploring more about self-love and body positivity, check out some of our other posts, including this great resource on intrauterine insemination. And for those seeking to boost fertility naturally, you might want to check out this guide that dives into effective supplements.
Conclusion
In summary, the way we speak about ourselves shapes our children’s perceptions of beauty. By embracing self-love and positivity, we can empower our daughters to do the same.