2021 is the year to start showing yourself some love and embracing all of your flaws! Valentine’s Day is a great opportunity to spread some positivity with others and yourself. Here are five simple tips to give yourself more love after bariatric surgery.
#1. Follow up Negative Thoughts with Positive Ones
We all have those days where we tend to nitpick at everything about ourselves. A good way to boost your mood and enhance your self-confidence is to follow up every negative thought about yourself with at least one positive thought. Practice these affirmations daily to boost your self-confidence:
- My flaws make me unique
- Doing my best is enough
- My body is healthy, and I’m gracious
- Small steps are still in progress
- I am proud of my unique qualities and the person I am becoming
- I am worthy of love and respect just as I am
- I don’t allow negative thoughts to control me!
“I’ve sewn myself a new wardrobe. Much easier to do now I fit into a more ‘normal’ size range and can buy patterns. 45 items of clothing made in the last year. A hobby that gives me so much confidence.” – Amy (Real Patient)
#2. Keep a “Top 10”
Try keeping a list of ten things you like about yourself. These ten things can be physical or mental. To take this further, you can list specific achievements or experiences that happen in your daily life, and review them the next morning. To reinforce this positive self-image, review your list each morning. Take a few moments to read through the items and let the positivity sink in. This practice will set the tone for your day, reminding you of the wonderful person you are and shifting your focus away from negative thoughts.
By cultivating this habit, you’ll develop a more positive and compassionate relationship with yourself. Instead of dwelling on self-doubt or criticism, you’ll have tangible evidence of your worth and achievements. This list will serve as a shield against negativity and empower you to face challenges with confidence and self-assurance.
Having a list of positive things you’ve thought about yourself and your personal achievements will remind you of how wonderful you are and will turn away negative thoughts!
“I am thankful to have the energy to go outside with my son and play with him!” – Latasha (Real Patient)
#3. Treat Yourself
Do something nice to appreciate yourself. A task as simple as a bubble bath, going for a walk, or even splurging on a new top can brighten your day! Try making your own homemade bath bombs; throwing on your favorite songs while you create your own mini spa can help to decompress even more! If you prefer a more active form of self-appreciation, going for a walk can do wonders for your physical and mental well-being. Find a scenic route or a peaceful park and immerse yourself in nature. Breathe in the fresh air, feel the gentle breeze against your skin, and take in the beauty that surrounds you. This simple act of connecting with nature can uplift your spirits and provide a sense of rejuvenation.
Finishing your night with a movie and some sugar-free chocolates will make for a great end to your day.
“My willingness to try new things that before surgery I would have talked myself out of. I have discovered a love for kayaking!” – Jen (Real Patient)
#4. Celebrate Your Wins
Every day, congratulate yourself on something you’re proud of that you have achieved. We often forget to give ourselves recognition for our accomplishments, no matter how big or small.
Try to imagine what a friend would say about your accomplishments and tell yourself these positive words of encouragement. We’ve all heard the saying we’re our own worst critics, so let’s practice being our own biggest fans! When self-doubt creeps in, remind yourself of all the times you overcame obstacles, learned from failures, and persevered. Embrace your strengths, talents, and unique qualities, and remind yourself that you are capable of achieving greatness.
Remember that self-congratulation is not about boasting or seeking external validation; it’s about nurturing a positive relationship with yourself. Take a moment each day to reflect on your accomplishments, no matter how small, and commend yourself for your hard work and dedication.
“2 Years ago today!! I feel like a bad Ba$$ let me tell you!! Never knew I had this much confidence hiding in me!! I will be forever grateful down 150lbs!!!” – RNY Patient
#5. Recognize that Beauty is Within
Recognize that beauty is within and cannot be defined by a mere number. Our worth is not determined by how much we weigh, but rather by our character, our talents, and the love we have for ourselves and others. Instead of fixating on the scale, let’s shift our focus to the things that truly matter. Let’s celebrate our bodies for their incredible strength, resilience, and the amazing things they allow us to do. Let’s appreciate the beauty that radiates from within, the kindness we show to others, and the way we nourish our minds and souls.
Embracing our uniqueness and individuality is what makes us truly beautiful. It’s about accepting ourselves as we are, with all our imperfections, and recognizing that true beauty transcends physical appearance. It’s the confidence we exude when we embrace our strengths, passions, and the love we have for ourselves.
“More energy and smaller body make yoga so much more enjoyable. I can feel myself getting stronger!!!” – Sara (Real Patient)
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