How do you feel about your body image? Most of us feel great until we sense that others compare us to a so-called perfect body image. Since many of us can be our own worst critics, it only takes a little negative motivation to create self-doubt.
National image expert Starley Murray shares five of the most common negative self-image situations that are shared by husbands, wives, celebrities, executives and -- as she states -- "anyone who has a body.”
In fact, many people in San Antonio feel stress over body image, since they're living in one of the top overweight cities in the nation.
1. NEGATIVE COMPARISONS CREATE NO-WIN RESULTS
Many people feel they need to have a “perfect body” to feel good about themselves. Seeing images of models and movie stars in ideal visual situations is not an accurate scale of comparison.
Starting off my career as a celebrity makeup artist revealed to me the subtle and drastic contrasts of image reality that are affected by lighting, makeup, camera lenses and photo re-touching.
It would be unrealistic to compare yourself to an image the model could not duplicate without all of the special effects of image alterations.
2. MEN FEEL IMAGE PRESSURES, TOO
Body image isn’t just a women’s issue. Rippling abs, bulging biceps and pumped-up pectorals have become a high standard, and many say it's the norm in Hollywood movies, television and fashion.
Adolescent males often feel the need to have bigger muscle mass. Men between the ages 45 and 55 show insecurities if their stomachs and chests are not toned. Millions of dollars are spent in the quest to control hair loss.
3. NEGATIVE RESULTS THAT AFFECT YOUR RELATIOSHIPS
Do you often point out your flaws to your partner? No one likes to hear people complain about themselves all the time. It gets old.
Poor body image can also result from being criticized, neglected or abused. When a person has a negative body image, it's hard for them to imagine anyone being attracted to them. Having a negative mindset can cause a person to pull away from others.
4. SOLUTIONS ANYONE CAN PRODUCE
Take care of your body! Eat healthy and exercise regularly. Take some time to invest in yourself. You can even spoil yourself!
Make it a point every day to find something about yourself that supports your confidence.
Lastly, accept the fact that nobody is as perfect as they might seem, especially air-brushed models in magazines. Even super model Cindy Crawford humbly stated, “I wish I looked like the Cindy Crawford in the magazines!”
5. POSITIVE RELATIONSHIP RESULTS
Remember that your body image should not be the basis of your self-worth, and if your partner makes you feel that way, maybe it’s better to say goodbye.
Your confidence will help attract a person who is right for you and who sees the best in you. A partner who thinks you look great helps you love the skin you're in.
Above all, you must consider factors of physical fitness and healthy self-esteem to be able to perceive and pursue what is the best situation for you.
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National televised image expert Starley Murray has coached Fortune 500 CEOs, millionaires, the media and celebrities on advanced image marketing techniques for more than 20 years. You can learn more about her image services and watch video tips at StarleyMurrayLive.com.
