Okay babes, let’s get real 👇 Who else has stood in front of the mirror picking apart their body before a big event? 🙋♀️ I used to have full-on arguments with my reflection: “Why can’t you look like those Instagram models? Ugh, these thunder thighs ruin EVERY outfit.” Then one morning, mid-self-roast, I accidentally whispered: “But they do hold up my favorite jeans pretty well.”
That tiny spark of kindness changed everything.
For 3 years, I’ve been experimenting with positive affirmations – not the cringey “I AM A GODDESS” stuff (though no shame if that works for you!), but personalized mantras that actually stick. Science backs this up: UCLA research shows repeating affirmations literally rewires our brains by thickening the prefrontal cortex (the self-control center).
Here’s my messy, non-linear journey:
Phase 1: The Eye-Roll Era
Writing “I am enough” felt like lying to myself. My inner critic snorted: “Enough for WHAT? Failing at keto?”
Breakthrough: I started SPECIFIC. Instead of vague positivity, I targeted my biggest insecurity:
“These legs carried me through 5 countries last year.”
“My softness makes me great at hugging rescue dogs.” 🐶
Phase 2: The “Fake It Till You Feel It” Disaster
Ever tried smiling while chanting affirmations? I looked deranged. Forced positivity backfires – University of Waterloo proved suppressing negative emotions increases stress.
Solution: I added reality checks:
“Today sucks AND I’m still worthy of care.”
“I feel insecure about my arms AND they make amazing pasta.” 🍝
Phase 3: Body Neutrality > Toxic Positivity
Game-changer: You don’t have to LOVE every body part. Sometimes “My stomach digests tacos efficiently” works better than forced adoration.
Unexpected Benefits:
– My “confidence” playlist (Lizzo meets Britney meets Shakira) became 73% more effective
– Started noticing how friends light up when I compliment THEIR unique traits
– Actually enjoyed shopping once I stopped comparing sizes
Pro Tips That Won’t Make You Gag:
1. Steal compliments: When someone says “Your laugh’s contagious,” write it down. Repeat it later.
2. Mirror Roulette: Leave post-its with affirmations in random reflections (phone screen, microwave, car window).
3. Bad Day Edition: Keep an “emergency” note: “This feeling isn’t forever. Remember Bali sunset legs.” 🌅
Last week, I wore shorts for the first time in 8 years. Not because my thighs got smaller – but because my shame did. Your turn, gorgeous. What’s ONE thing your body does brilliantly? Let’s flood these comments with unapologetic self-celebration! 💥