Disclaimer: Everything that is written in this blog post is based on my personal experience and my beliefs.
Love yourself first.
You have already heard this phrase before, right? Yeah... but do you know what does it mean?
When you love yourself first, you respect yourself enough to demand the same amount of love and appreciation from others in your life as you give out to them, nothing less. You don’t have time for people who treat you poorly because you know your self-worth and what is best for you.
Most of the time, we don't love ourselves because of our body image. Our mind sees only flaws while we look at the mirror. So, how to change your mindset and start to see those good, unique parts of yourself?
In my opinion, one of the best ways to do it is to start a journey towards a positive body image. You may ask: "What is the first step to getting into it?" Well, by using the 5-second rule.
What is the 5-second rule?
There are five seconds between your initial instinct to act and your brain stopping you. So, instead of letting your brain stop you, you count 5-4-3-2-1 and, you take an action that is based on your initial instinct.
Before we start discussing how it works in a different situation, you need to ask yourself these questions:
Why do you want to start your journey towards a positive body image? What is the reason behind it? Is it because you are doing it for yourself or, you are doing it for someone else?
You have to remember that you do it for yourself because it will be your journey. Instead of striving for someone else’s beauty and body, focus on embracing yours.
If you aren’t motivated enough to make healthier life choices, such as doing more physical activities or eating healthier.
This is how to use the rule:
5-4-3-2-1 and choose healthier option or say no to something that isn’t good for your health.
5-4-3-2-1 and change your clothes to leggings and a t-shirt and do some physical activity (go for a walk, do some stretching or a workout)
If you have been struggling with being confident in certain situations. (For example, when someone is saying mean things to you about your body or look.)
This is how to use the rule:
5-4-3-2-1 and think positive.
5-4-3-2-1 and stand up for yourself.
If you are struggling with starting to create a self-care routine.
This is how to use the rule:
5-4-3-2-1 and start to look for some ideas on self-care activities.
5-4-3-2-1 and relax your mind and your body, take a deep breath.
If you find this post helpful, make sure to press the "❤️" button and share it with others. In the comment section, write down in what other situations would you use this 5-second rule?
I and others will be waiting for your answer! :)
Photo credit: Icons8. Graphic created by Sedija Lejiete
