Do you look in the mirror and actually like what you see?
Now I'm not saying you're perfectly satisfied with everything, but seriously, does a look in the mirror make you smile most of the time, or do you scowl?
I have been a very slinky size 6, and I have watched as the years have gone on and my weight put me at a 16 (and higher, at times.) Yet, no matter what size I am, I manage to look in the mirror and find something that makes my lips turn up at the corners. I think that who I am inside can be seen through my eyes, and so it doesn't always matter what my reflection shows. (Not that I don't have messed up hair with a squished pillow face -- it happens to us all except those tv characters who go to bed in full makeup and wake up without raccoon eyes!)
Now before you think I'm getting all egotistical, you need to know my philosophy on these things. I think no matter what your size or physical capabilities, confidence is only found when you realize your own worth (but humbly -- meaning, with respect to others unique gifts.) I know that's often easier said than done. Your charm, your wit, your ability to connect with others -- that's all a result of your ability to process emotions -- it is your very essense -- your personality, and that has nothing to do with the size of the clothes that hang in your closet. Or at least it shouldn't in my book. I've tried to live with that in mind when I have those days where my confidence is shattered.
Why is it that some of us don't eat and take to exercise when stressed, and others find comfort in noshing and resting? Either extreme is bad, but neither will do damage if done in moderation. I have periods where I sit in both camps, alternating bursts of energy with periods of sluggish rest. Lately, I've been more sluggish -- almost like I'm in purgatory. Waiting on lots of possibilities to turn into realities, nurturing them as best as I can, but the waiting can take a toll on your psyche, can't it?
It's funny, but the reason I'd like to shed pounds and become more physically toned has nothing to do with my confidence. It has more to do with fashion options! I like to get dressed and I don't like what I see off the rack. I find that some of the most unusually beautiful, expressive clothes are tailored to women who are shorter and rail thin. Those of us who are tall (5'10 1/2) and curvier don't stand a chance finding something that fits in those stores. (Have you ever heard the saying -- "If you can't get rid of it or hide it, at least dress it up!")
Do you find that your weight affects your confidence? What do you do when you need that boost, no matter what the scale says? Many women rely on makeup. (Men don't do that (at least the vast majority I know don't get excited about a new lipstick!) What makes you feel better about yourself regardles of what the scale says? How do you see what's within?
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