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Everyone has at least one thing they wish they could change about their body – some people wish they were skinner while others want curves, girls with curly hair straighten it and girls with straight hair curl it. People tend to put themselves down, especially teenagers and women, and a bad body image can have massive negative effects on your self-esteem. Even the richest and most beautiful of celebrities have body issues – so remember you are not in this alone.

Society

We live in a society focused on looks. A woman’s body is idolised and real women haven’t a hope of matching the air-brushed images they see in magazines. However, in order to be successful in this world you need to hold yourself with confidence because if you don’t believe in yourself the chances of anyone else believing in you are slim. A person with good self-esteem is easy to be around, meaning they gain friends easily, are loved by co-workers and, so, are more successful in all areas of their life.

Learn to love yourself

The trick to maintaining a good body image and self-esteem is in learning to love yourself. Come to terms with your flaws and appreciate them for what they are – dirty dancing star Jennifer Grey had a simple nose job but it ruined her entire career. Make your flaws work for you, not against you, and if you really don’t like your flabby thighs or love handles, do something about it. Change your diet and get to the gym and you are bound to see improvements in your body.

Get help

If your poor body image and negative self-esteem are leading to eating disorders, self-mutilation or substance abuse you need to ask for help. Consult a psychologist to see if your body issues are related to some deep-seated childhood problem or get yourself down to the doctor before it is too late. The first step in the road to recovery is to admit you have a problem. Don’t be afraid to lean on your friends and family in your time of need.

Tags: weight loss