With technological advancements continuously on the rise, it is noticeable that self-confidence has also come plummeting down significantly, especially for women of all ages.

When you turn on the TV, what do you see? Another treatment that claims to defy signs of ageing or a new tea that promises you the body of a runway model? You turn off the TV and decide to go through your mobile phone instead. You are bombarded with photos of gorgeous young ladies free from any noticeable flaws that naturally come with being human.

It cannot be denied that the media today focuses on youth and physical beauty according to societal standards—super skinny women with perfect teeth, flawless skin, and gorgeous hair! This has made it hard for women to feel positive about their image. It is as if not having these qualities disqualifies them from being beautiful.

A positive self-image is arguably one of the top things most women struggle with. So, how can you learn to love your body the way it is?

Focus on the Positive

What do you like the most about yourself? If you think there is nothing like-able about you, think again!

Here are some questions to get you thinking about the things you DO like about yourself:

• What areas do you get complimented on the most? What do others notice about you first when you walk into a room?
• Do you have a warm smile?
• Are you shapely with a larger busts and hips? Do you have a womanly figure? Do you have an athletic build? Are you slim? Or is there more to love?
• Do you have nice legs? Are they thin and long? Are they muscular and strong?
• Do people comment on how pretty you are or often say that you have beautiful eyes?
• Do you like to show off your feet with pretty sandals or open toed shoes?
• Is your hair healthy and strong? Do you have lovely straight hair? Gorgeous waves? Beautiful curls?
• Do you give the best hugs? The funniest jokes?
• Do you have the biggest heart?
• Were you able to raise and nurture kind human beings?
• Have you cared for animals or spent time with the weak and lonely?

Love your feminine body and embrace your female essence. Instead of being overly critical and negative, be grateful for the body and health you do have. Give yourself permission to see and accept the good! Look beyond the physical too and see your beautiful soul.

Yes, I know I am beautiful on the inside, but I want to look good and feel good too.

Choose the right clothes.

Boost your self-image with the perfect clothes for you. Learning to love your body is important because having a good self-image empowers you in many ways. When you love the way you look, you feel more confident and confidence gives you the ability to do anything you set your mind to.

Dressing for your body type also plays a big part in how you look and see yourself, so it’s important to know what colour, style, shape and material of clothing looks best on you. It does not have to be trendy, but it must capture your style and personality. Wear something that is comfortable and makes you feel good. If your closet is full of worn out t-shirts and old faded blue jeans, maybe it’s time for a wardrobe makeover. On the other hand, if it is filled to the brim with trendy pieces that you will never be comfortable wearing, then it is time to be more careful with your selections.

Take a good, honest friend or family member shopping with you to help you choose clothes that fit well and colours that look best on you. Updating your wardrobe does not have to be expensive. Begin by shopping resale stores or go thrifting. Oftentimes you can find brand name, never worn clothes at prices greatly below retail. However, don’t settle for less than the best for your body type. If you can’t find the perfect items for your body, then don’t buy the clothes just because they’re cheap. It might surprise you, but you can even find great pieces in your closet that just need better styling. You can even find some pieces you can adopt from your mother, sister, or friends!

Take care of your body.

Do not get tricked into following over the top fad diets. Nourish your body by eating balanced meals and always drinking enough water. Get some exercise into your routine and you will feel not only healthier, but also happier and more energized.

If you feel good on the inside, you will glow on the outside.

Stop comparing yourself to others.

It is very tempting to nitpick the good we see in others and consider our lack of the same qualities as shortcomings. However, this is not healthy. Learn to acknowledge that we are all different and we all have unique features that are admirable. We should avoid shaming other women who do not have the same body type that we consider ideal too. Spread love and empower each other.

Nobody is perfect, but every body is beautiful.

Once you start loving your body by recognizing what you do like about it, you’ll gain a whole new confidence like you’ve never felt before and other people will take notice too. You may notice others reacting somewhat differently toward you as they respond to your new confidence. Do not forget to be grateful for your body and the things it has allowed you to do and achieve. The fact that you are a woman is already amazing in itself.