Life Struggles

I have a hard time remembering a time when I was completely content with myself. From a young age I have always had issues with myself and body image. And let me just say,

 I HATE IT. 

I think my issues really become a true burden during my first year of university. Living in a residence was hard on me. I never found my place. Food and drinking seemed to be endless and like most 17 year old girls I took full advantage. With my continual over indulgence and a slowing metabolism, excess weight began to appear. If I was already having negative thoughts about my self image imagine my thoughts with the excess 20 pounds on my frame.  I felt stuck and helpless in a circle of bad habits. I lost confidence and never really let my 1st 2nd and even 3rd year friends see the real me. I am not going to get to deep into the details, at least not in this post. But, I will say things got worse and then they got better. 

The sad thing is I am a beautiful average sized girl with a great personality [please excuse my modesty]. So why did I feel this way and still sometimes do. It's a hard question and I wish I could say what I truly am and know it, but sometimes saying is easier than doing. 

It is probably true that most or at least a fair amount of girls and boys living in western society can relate to these feelings and self battles. Whether it be about food, body image, or other personal issues, I think we all at one point in life feel a glimpse of helplessness.

Throughout the years I have learned a number of things that have helped me deal with my issues. Some may seem silly or "stupid" but they have helped. Today I am in a very happy place. It is by no means perfect but I now know how to deal with these feelings when they sneak into my head.

Tips for finding the beauty in you.

• There is only one you. Focus on yourself [in a positive way] and stop comparing yourself to others. 

• Give your self positive affirmations daily, eventually you will truly believe what you are saying. There is a lot to be said about the power of positive self talk. 

• Take it one day at a time. The past is in the past, don't punish yourself for something you did yesterday. The future is in the future, don't let yourself freak out about your progress and future goals. If you keep your thoughts inline with your future goals while focusing on today you will succeed. 

• Get it out. If you are feeling a way that makes you upset or negative you need to express these feelings. Write about it, talk about it do whatever you need! Trust me keeping negative thoughts in your head will only overwhelm you and cause destruction. 

We are what we think - Buddha