If you have been overweight for some time, it is highly likely that you have lost some confidence over the years and you don’t always feel your best. However, it is important to remember that loving the skin you are in will help you get to where you want to be, quicker. A healthy body is a happy body – and a happy body is more likely to get to your goal weight quicker.

[How to manifest permanent weight loss in 4 steps]

Here are some tips to help you love the skin you’re in

 

Tip #1 – Acceptance

I know it’s easier said than done. How do you accept something that you want to change more than anything else in your life? Well, it starts with making the decision. You have to start somewhere, and realizing just because you failed at a diet or exercise routine before doesn’t make you a failure.

Tip #2 – Find what works for you

Starting something new often means that you have to step out of your comfort zone. The very reason that you are at the weight you are at, is because you have not found something that works for your lifestyle. By looking around, you may just find something that is less time consuming and complicated than those programs that you have tried before.

Do this by identifying your own strengths and weaknesses. If you don’t exercise enough, look for simple ways to burn calories around what you already do. If you don’t like to eat diet foods, find ways to capitalize on food combinations.

[Check out our post on celebrity diets to choose one that works for you]

Tip #3 – Watch your mouth MIND!

It’s not your mouth (or what you stuff it in) so much as your mind that makes you struggle to lose weight. Psychologists say that we think  40 000 negative thoughts each day. That can’t help you!  Look for good points in every event, action and thought. Keeping a gratitude list is a proven and powerful way to enhance your self-talk.

Also, be sure to look your best, but don’t compare yourself with the likes of Angelina Jolie and Beyonce 3 months after they had babies.

Beauty is from within, but many of us base our own self-worth on outer appearances, therefore, get rid of unsightly hair, comb your hair and slap on some lipstick.

Accept compliments that come your way. People give compliments because they want to – not to give you a false sense of security. Smile, say “Thank you!” and do an internal happy dance. No need to be sensitive or uncomfortable.

Tip #4 – Think Realistically

While you are doing your best to look good while you are in the process of losing weight, remember that it is a process. The more weight you have to lose, the longer it will take (and no, that doesn’t mean that it’s a pointless exercise). Set realistic goals  and celebrate achieving all the sub-goals along the way.

 Tip #5  - The only thing that is perfect is…

Well – nothing and nobody. Happiness is not measured in inches. We all have imperfections. We should celebrate our uniqueness as that’s what gives life flavor.