Last New Year’s, I believed that shedding pounds would enhance my outlook on life. A medication had caused metabolic disturbances, leading to diabetes and significant weight gain that I only recognized when my clothes felt tight. The moment I saw the scale, tears streamed down my face.
In an effort to feel better, I adhered to a rigorous diet and exercise plan, but it fell short of my expectations. After discontinuing the medication and starting weight-loss prescriptions, I envisioned that reaching a size 8, reminiscent of my former self, would bring happiness. While the medication did facilitate weight loss, it never felt sufficient; I perpetually battled feelings of inadequacy.
Then, a documentary on body positivity transformed my perspective.
According to StatisticsBrain, the most common New Year’s resolution is weight loss, a goal I’ve chased before. However, this year, I’m shifting my focus to body positivity, and I invite you to join me on this journey.
Create a Positive Environment
We live in a society that often deems us unworthy. For instance, just last October, a fellow passenger on an airplane apologized to me for her size, as if occupying space was a crime. Such narratives are pervasive, fueling the diet industry’s influence. To combat these negative messages, actively seek out voices that promote acceptance and positivity.
Follow body positivity advocates like Mia Johnson and plus-size models such as Tara Lynn. Explore hashtags like #effyourbodystandards, #plussizefashion, and #plussizeootd on social media platforms. I personally enjoy #pinupstyle, #plussizepinup, and #plussizemodel, showcasing diverse beauty. Engage with these communities; they can provide invaluable support.
Purge Your Wardrobe
This doesn’t mean you have to discard everything, but it’s essential to let go of clothes that no longer fit. Holding onto ill-fitting garments only perpetuates an unhealthy dream. Keep a few sentimental pieces if you wish, or creatively repurpose your favorites through DIY projects. If crafting isn’t your forte, consider donating items that don’t fit or make you feel confident. Additionally, consider getting rid of your scale; it can significantly shift your mindset.
Analyze Media Messages
We’re constantly bombarded with the notion that we aren’t enough—our bodies, hair, and overall appearance fall short of societal standards. Take time to critically evaluate these messages. Advertisements often imply that happiness is contingent upon being unhealthily thin while wearing their products. This narrative excludes individuals wearing sizes XL, XXL, and beyond. Recognizing the absurdity in these messages can aid in reclaiming your mental well-being.
Recognize That Size Doesn’t Define Worth
Many women, myself included, have been conditioned to equate self-worth with the size label in our clothing. It’s vital to understand that size labels vary; one brand’s size 8 may not align with another’s. My closet boasts a range from sizes 10 to 16. Shift your focus from these labels to clothing that resonates with you and makes you feel fabulous. Remind yourself of the words from a popular film: “You are not your size label.”
Appreciate Beauty in Diversity
When you encounter women of varied sizes, colors, and backgrounds, take a moment to acknowledge their beauty and offer compliments. By doing so, you’ll gradually learn to appreciate diverse, unfiltered beauty. Your kind words can uplift others, creating a ripple effect of positivity.
Embracing body positivity is not a quick fix; it requires commitment to changing your mindset and nurturing self-acceptance. I acknowledge that I still struggle at times, occasionally succumbing to negative thoughts about my body. It’s a continuous journey of building oneself up, liberating your mind, and reclaiming the time spent worrying about appearances.
In 2018, I am determined to delve deeper into body positivity, and I hope you will accompany me on this empowering path.
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Summary
This article encourages readers to embrace body positivity as a New Year’s resolution by surrounding themselves with positive influences, reevaluating their wardrobes, analyzing media messages, recognizing the worth beyond size, and appreciating diverse beauty. It emphasizes the long-term commitment required for self-acceptance and invites others to join the journey.