By - Nadia Chapman
In case you were wondering, everybody is bikini ready! We're not here to tell you what to eat and how often you should exercise if you want to feel more confident this summer at the beach or the pool! We're here to remind you that feeling comfortable and confident in your skimpiest outfit starts with adjusting your mindset and outlook.
You know what to eat, what not to eat, and I'm sure you're aware that daily exercise can flatten your stomach and tone those legs; we've all googled plenty of that before. You can drink green juice all you want and take Pilate classes every week, but changing the way you see things will make a difference in your self-acceptance journey. Yes, it's all in your head!
Most of the time, our insecurities come from comparing ourselves to others or how we used to look years ago. We constantly scrutinize our bodies and overthink everything when it comes to body image, but confidence is an inside job, and perspective is everything. You might not look like your 20-year-old self, but what would the older version of you think of missing out on some fun in the sun with your kids over the extra pounds or stretch marks? Redefine your priorities and what's important—looking perfect in a bathing suit, or playing in the waves with your family and friends, feeling comfortable in your own skin?
Working on visualizing the best version of yourself is a powerful way to build a positive image in your mind of the person you wish to be. Get clear about what you want, how you wish to feel, and the meaning behind it all. You were born to shine and live your life to the fullest. Start doing the inner work to bring more self-love, and let go of the limiting beliefs that don't align with what you want in life. A new attitude and identity can shift things around, and by acting more confidently and stepping out of your comfort zone, you will slowly become more self-assured and comfortable in your own skin.
Energy flows where attention goes. Stop focusing on what you dislike about yourself, and appreciate and flaunt what you appreciate and are grateful for. Focusing on things you cannot control will drain and frustrate you. Instead, focus on things that you love about yourself and your body, and focus on healthy changes you can start doing to feel and look great.
Focus on yourself and your road to happiness. Stop comparing yourself with others, and live in the present. Remember that quote, "Today is the youngest you will ever be. Live like it". Don't let your body hold you back from experiencing special moments and building memories at the beach or the pool. Build awareness around social media, as it is full of edited and altered pictures that gives unrealistic impressions of perfection. Separating yourself from the way you look and appreciate what your body does for you is a good way to detach yourself from self-criticism and destructive negative self-talk
There is something so beautiful and powerful about letting go of our insecurities and the self-criticism that prevents us from living to our highest self. There is freedom and content beyond our fears. Let's change the message we put out there, so that other women and the next generation of girls can learn to feel confident and embrace their uniqueness.