Don't Beat Yourself Up

As a person who has struggled for years with an eating disorder constantly noticing each imperfection I finally heard someone say something that made sense.It didn't come from a counselor, therapist, friend, relative.....instead it was from a complete and total stranger.

Yesterday, we had an amazing speaker come and talk to our students about what it takes to be a champion. He discussed self-discipline, self- respect, demonstrating accountability and overall character. He had loud music, big muscles, a loud booming voice and the ability to mesmerize even the most challenging children in the audience. (Plug for him...He's from the organization Comandos)

He said to us that we are perfect just the way we are. He said to us when you stand in front of mirror lift yourself up. Then, it all came together in one silly but meaningful analogy.

He began to hit his arm, pinch himself and hurt his body. He did it in a joking matter and then asked...Would you stand around doing this? Would you intentionally hurt yourself while watching it all happen in front of a mirror?

No. I would not.

Yet every time we think a negative thought about our self worth or appearance, we are doing exactly that. My body is covered in figurative bruises from my intentional and deliberate abuse to myself. I ache from each and every pinch, hit, bite and scratch that I have inflicted upon myself. My body is exhausted from a 24 hr battle each and every day. I simply cannot continue this fight.

I'm stepping out of the ring and working towards a more positive outlook as it relates to my self image. For every negative thought that comes across my mind, I will need to write an affirmation to counteract it. As daunting as the task may seem, I know it is something that must be done.

I challenge you to hang your boxing gloves up for good. Stop beating yourself up and instead embrace who you are. For once and for all, stop beating yourself up.