Glamour Magazine recently did a survey of 16,000 women on the subject of body image. Results showed that 40% of women struggle with their body image. That fact wasn’t entirely surprising, but this one was: a whopping 71% said they feel they are too fat - even though only 46% were actually overweight. Here’s where the obvious follow up question comes in: What makes women feel they are fat - when they’re not? Maybe our perception of body image has less to do with fat and more to do with - insecurity.

Body Image: What Is Really Underneath It All?

It has been my observation that many women judge their bodies strictly on how they feel they measure up in some else’s eyes - true or not. It is no secret that we are our own worst critic, and our body-image is a ready target. It is an area that we control - even if that control has become a place where we vent frustrations and disappointments.  No one is better at dishing out criticism like a woman looking in the mirror.

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall…

When did the mirror image begin to dictate what is and is not an acceptable body-image? The mirror reflects more than body image. It reflects the very core of where we are most vulnerable. It sees us when we are alone - when our insecurities surface and we come face to face with our vulnerability.

Take another look in the mirror. Maybe you see things you don’t like. Maybe you DO think you are too fat. Well, welcome to the real world where 99% of the female population is NOT perfect! And, if you really feel that way - take the first step toward doing something about it.

See a Positive Body Image

On the other hand, maybe you will - for the first time - begin to see the things you DO like. Think back to a time when you felt lovely - when you were confident and ready to take on the world. Then, carry that image with you. While the visible image you portray to others does indeed play a part in your overall body image, it’s what you think about yourself and what you say to yourself that really tips the balance.

Your Body Image and Self-Talk

The important thing is: recognize the challenges for what they are - simply a starting point. Listen to your self-talk. Your overall body image will be a direct result of what you say to yourself. It is made up of more than just visual images. It is made up of who you really are underneath it all.