Set goals, shop smart, smile
Rita Mylett, a personal styling and image consultant and Network Mayo’s Business Woman of the Year, offers Mayo Advertiser readers some tips about body image for teenagers. (www.rmibranding.com ).
Some teenagers can't wait to get a new back-to-school wardrobe; others always dread it. If you're simply not into fashion, no problem — just buy some basics and blend. But if you hate your clothes because you don't like the way you look, that's a bigger problem. Here are some tips for dealing with body image angst.
Be realistic
The models you see in magazines are airbrushed. The actors and actresses on TV and in movies have hair, wardrobe, and make-up experts around them all day on the set. You can't look that good. They don't look that good.
Don't get caught up in sizes
You might need an eight in one brand, a 10 in the next, and a six in the next. Try this: When you try on jeans, grab the same style in two or three different sizes. Don't look at the tag when you pull each pair on, just figure out which one looks and feels the best. That's the one for you!
Don't hook your self-esteem to looks alone
Even the most beautiful people have bad hair days and get spots. What else have you got going for you? Focus on all your strengths. If you aren't happy with your weight, eat healthier foods instead of “dieting”. If you are very worried about your body check with your doctor to be sure things are OK.
Don't hide behind your clothes
It only makes matters worse. Wearing clothes you like will make you feel better about yourself. Clothes that are too big won't make you look thinner. If you need help figuring out what looks best on you, ask someone at the store. Or find a person whose style you admire and ask for advice.
Exercise
Stop whining and start doing. You'll relieve stress, and be healthier and happier.
Listen to your mother
Stand up straight. Put your shoulders back. Make eye contact. Comb your hair. Wear clean clothes. Brush your teeth. Smile.
Find a role model
Is there someone you admire, someone who seems to have it all pulled together? Don't go all Single White Female and turn yourself into a carbon copy, but do note what it is that person has going for him or her and see if you can get the same confidence.
Set goals
Think about what you'd like to accomplish, then make a plan for how to do it. Just knowing that you're trying — that you have that goal in mind — will make you feel better about yourself.
Talk to someone
If your body image problems are too much to handle alone, chat about it with a parent, coach, teacher, counsellor or adult friend. An adult can help you put things in perspective without the drama.
