Very recently I saw a billboard with a picture of a swimsuit model and a caption that read ‘Mommy Makeover’. In that moment I paused and thought about the true meaning of change.

Quite often media portrayals of women focus on external beauty and shape how we think, act and feel about ourselves and the world around us.

Don’t get me wrong, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with wanting to look our best; However, this positive feeling tends to be temporary.

I wonder what change might look like if we focus our energy on the inside rather than the outside? I wonder how our lives might be transformed if we began to change our internalized beliefs about ourselves, others and the world?

As women it’s important that we not obsess about beauty but rather focus our energy on being strong and healthy. Taking care of our bodies and health and accepting ourselves for who we are is key to long lasting change.

Interpersonal relationships

Engaging in healthy relationships is important for overall mental, emotional and physical well-being. As a matter of fact, relationships help fight loneliness while also giving you a sense of purpose in life.

Take a moment to consider your support system? How satisfying are they? What improvements can be made to promote health and vitality in your relationships?

Boundaries

Boundaries are healthy and necessary for relationships. Relationships can only be healthy when both people have the space to be themselves and maintain personal integrity.

Sadly, many women find themselves in relationships, romantic and otherwise, with people who do not respect boundaries and feel entitled to have their needs met regardless of the other person’s.

If you find it difficult to maintain healthy boundaries check out this PsychCentral article.

Confidence

Confidence comes from a mindset that failure and mistakes are merely chances to learn. It also comes from knowing strengths and abilities as well as limitations.

In other words, confidence is a byproduct of knowing and accepting our true selves. Many of us struggle with lack of confidence from time to time; however, if it is interfering with your goals and views about yourself seek support to get back on track.

Make Self-Care a Priority

Put yourself and your needs first. This may feel strange and even somehow wrong if you’ve spent your entire life taking care of others. Give yourself permission to feel your feelings and get what you need to feel happy and well.

Working from the inside out is not easy however it is the first step toward long-lasting change.

If you are interested in meeting with a counselor interested in your overall well-being please contact me. My goal is to help you live your very best life. Remember, long-lasting change is not a quick fix but an ongoing journey.