Take a look in the mirror. What do you see? Even if you are happy with your physical appearance, you might find a few things that you don’t like. Whether it’s a childhood chickenpox scar that never faded, the shape of a front tooth or hair texture, we all have insecurities about the way we look. How can you accept your imperfections? What should you do if something more serious is going on?
Accepting Your Imperfections
First, remember that every single person on the planet is flawed in some way, shape or form. Even celebrities with millions of fans and followers have flaws. We all have beautiful things to offer the world, and still, we are all flawed. Accepting your imperfections can be a difficult and ongoing process, so start small. Ask yourself if there is anything you can do to work on the imperfection, especially if it’s something temporary like a bad haircut.
What Would You Tell Your Friend?
One of the most helpful ways to boost self-image is by correcting your thoughts whenever they are too harsh. When you try on swimsuits in the dressing room or walk by a mirror and aren’t happy with what you see, ask yourself what you would say to a friend in that situation. Would you tell your friend that she looks terrible or that she needs to hit the gym before she even thinks of wearing that bikini? No way! Instead, you would tell your friend that she looks beautiful, especially when she puts her shoulders back and grins with confidence.
Sometimes It Isn’t That Simple
If you find yourself obsessing over your flaws to the point that it interferes with your daily life, something more serious might be going on. Millions of people throughout the United States are living with Body Dysmorphic Disorder or BDD. BDD is characterized by an intrusive obsession with an imagined or minor issue in one’s physical appearance. BDD affects both men and women, children and adults and all races and ethnicities. If you are concerned that your insecurities might have deeper roots in BDD, get in touch with CBT Baltimore today.
Get in Touch
Need advice on boosting your self-image? Contact CBT Baltimore to get on the right track at 443-470-9815.