XL Emma's S.A.M.E Diet - S & A = Self-Acceptance!

My self-acceptance journey has been a long one and I can't remember when I actually realised I felt happy about myself and no longer felt the disgust, disappointment and negative emotion that I had for the way I looked in my late teens/early twenties.

All I know is that liking myself is a much better place to be in than hating myself!

My theory is not scientific or based on any professional qualifications - it is just how it worked for me, so here are my tips for SELF-ACCEPTANCE:

* BE REALISTIC
It is fine to have a role model or have someone you aspire to be like or in this case look like but you MUST be realistic. For example if you aspire to have flawless skin, amazing glossy hair, a toned/flat stomach and/or endless long bronzed legs just like the picture of a famous actress on the front cover of a magazine - STOP and remember these words.... make-up artist, hair stylist, personal trainer, cosmetic surgery, great lighting, professional photographer, air-brushing, computer enhancement etc etc. The majority of images we aspire to are NOT REAL!

* POSTURE & CONFIDENCE
Poor posture is not only terrible for your health it portrays a lack of confidence and people DO treat you differently! Believe me quite a lot of people who you may perceive as confident are FAKING IT!  I have learn't to fake self-confidence and in turn people react so differently to me and although I may be shaking inside, the outcome is much more positive and that makes the next time not so hard. Shoulders back, head up, tummy in, eye contact and most importantly SMILE!

* LOOK AFTER YOURSELF - GOOD GROOMING
I find that people who don't like themselves in turn don't value themselves and the way they look. They "let themselves go".... Look after your body, maximise your best bits, learn to disguise the bits you don't like, get your hair done regularly, have your nails done, get a regular massage/pedicure or whatever treatment makes you feel good - don't view these things as only for special occasions. LIFE should be a special occasion!

* LIFE IS TOO SHORT!
Pretty obvious this one but we only find ourselves saying this when something tragic or unexpected has happened! I am not advocating living every day as if its your last but at the same time don't waste your life wishing for retirement, a lottery win or a life-changing experience. Make the most of life NOW!

CHECK OUT MODERATION & EXERCISE - THE OTHER COMPONENTS OF XL EMMA'S S.A.M.E DIET...