Warmer months are here, and while this is often a welcome respite for holidays, vacations, less clothing, and more outdoor time, it can also fuel the desire to play the comparison game, which can drastically impact one’s self-esteem. Instead of worrying about body image and psychological stress, here are some simple strategies to remind us that confidence is what WE make it.
Comfort Creates Confidence is one of my signature phrases when I’m teaching movement, and it also applies to feeling good in our skin. Let’s take this philosophy and give it some texture with these 10 easy tips:
- Wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident, vs. succumbing to trends.
- Prioritize positivity with affirmations, being aware, and replacing negative self-talk.
- If you find your algorithm feeding you “perfection” and stories that don’t resonate with the state of mind you desire, change it! Limit consumption of those channels and/or actively mute or block content that doesn’t fit with your values.
- Engage in physical activity for a psychological boost, and also make sure it’s something you enjoy vs. “punishment” or “have to” so you can fit a certain image or enjoy an indulgence such as ice cream.
- Be kind to yourself and know that it’s okay to have days when you may not feel your best.
- Spend time with those who celebrate you, and that support is a two-way street.
- Get enough sleep and stay hydrated. It seems silly, but these two things positively impact our mental well-being, stamina, and motivation to move!
- Stay consistent vs. chewing off too much at a time. A simple walk (you can even break it up throughout the day), done consistently, can make a bigger impact vs. thinking TOO big and dropping out of that activity. I always like to say, “Small action, big gains!”
- As Rich Roll says, “Mood follows action,” so when eating, try to choose healthier food options that boost your energy and help you feel great from the inside out.
- Prioritize self-care and schedule regular activities that help you recharge, such as mindfulness, massage, meditation, and more!
Ultimately, confidence is built from within and not from external sources. When we feel self-assured from the inside out, it impacts both ourselves and those around us.
I used to sell cheeseburgers, true story. As a self-proclaimed “Certified La Pistola” I’ve been in the international fitness, wellness, and Pilates education business for over 17 years, traveling and speaking worldwide. As the Founder of Level Up MVMT, I help instructors Level Up their programming, movement, and coaching skills through creative curriculum development, research-backed strategies, and user-friendly plug-and-play formats. Find me worldwide as a premier presenter and teacher for Pilates Anytime and at fitness and wellness conferences. And yes, I’m a former corporate marketer who specialized in fast food clients. I left the biz and took a BIG LEAP into studio ownership, wellness, freelance marketing, and much more in 2005. My joy is creating community, championing and supporting others, and delivering my passion for Pilates and integrated movement. NCPT Certified, Balanced Body® Principal Educator, BASI™ Graduate, BOSUÒ Elite Master Trainer.
