Tips for Maintaining a Positive Body Image in a Culture of Comparison

Contributor: Amy M. Klimek, MA, LCPC, Director of Program Development, Eating Disorder Program Coordinator, Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center

The American culture is defined by comparison, especially in the female population. From a young age, girls are conditioned to believe they will never be good enough, especially in the area of beauty and body standards. We are taught to compare ourselves to the person sitting next to us, and in nine out of ten cases, we will probably conclude that we do not measure up.

A culture where comparison is habitual and females are conditioned to think they are not beautiful or good enough, only leads to judgments and criticisms.

Naturally, advertising messages daily exacerbate this negativity by telling us we need this makeup or this hair product for improvement. This time of year, women and adolescents far and wide are nearly paralyzed by the pending summer season. Strategically placed next to an article about the latest swim suit fad will always be one, if not more, ads for weight-loss programs.

Although entrenched in this culture, steps can be taken to mitigate this negativity.

Redefine Beauty

Beauty, as defined by the American culture, is often ridiculous and unobtainable. Therefore, intentionally launch yourself on a journey of rediscovery. Establish what true beauty is apart from the physical being. What is inside is authentically real, a beauty that lasts. See it in yourself, then generously extend it to those around you.

Become Critical Viewers of Media Messages

You are flipping through a magazine and come across an article on how to lose ten pounds. Before you even begin reading, stop. Ask yourself what they are marketing and how it supports the way you want to live. Remind yourself that someone wants to make money at your expense. Silently protest by refusing to read on.

Develop a voice of compassion towards your body

Body shamming cannot be understated because the concept of self-fulfilling prophecy is real. By and large, what you say over and over to yourself is what you will become. Valuing and accepting your body as a whole instead of in parts ultimately drives the voice of compassion.

Let Go and Let Yourself Love

All of us are impacted by our culture, but none of us must remain a victim. We are each accountable for how we show up to our own lives and the lives of others. Let go of the negative messages and redirect your thoughts and actions toward gratitude, love and appreciation for yourself and your body. Your body exists for one reason: it allows you to live your life.

If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, tell someone now. Recovery is possible with the support from eating disorder professionals and your support system. It’s never too late to live a full and fulfilling life.

If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, tell someone now. Recovery is possible with the support from eating disorder professionals and your support system. It’s never too late to live a full and fulfilling life.

Community Discussion – Share your thoughts here!

How has your body image changed throughout your eating disorder recovery? What tools have you used that have made the biggest impact on your body image?

About the Author: As the Eating Disorder Program Coordinator, Amy facilitates supervision for Eating Disorder Specialists, offers support through training to TK staff, and provides education on eating disorders to the community.

Amy started at Timberline Knolls as a Behavioral Health Specialist. As such, she provided support at the milieu level for all residents. She transitioned to Eating Disorder Specialist in 2012, supporting healing in present moment experiences for residents who struggled with eating disorders and body image. Amy earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Sociology from the University of Illinois. She was awarded a Master’s Degree in Counseling specializing in both community and school counseling from Lewis University.

The opinions and views of our guest contributors are shared to provide a broad perspective of eating disorders. These are not necessarily the views of Eating Disorder Hope, but an effort to offer discussion of various issues by different concerned individuals.

We at Eating Disorder Hope understand that eating disorders result from a combination of environmental and genetic factors. If you or a loved one are suffering from an eating disorder, please know that there is hope for you, and seek immediate professional help.

Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on May 13, 2016
Published on EatingDisorderHope.com