Self-Confidence, Not Comparison! Well-Being in the Warmer Months
Warmer months are approaching, which are often a welcome respite during holidays, vacations, wearing fewer clothes, and spending more time outdoors, but they can also intensify the urge to compare ourselves to others, which can drastically affect our self-esteem. Instead of worrying about appearance and mental stress, here are a few simple strategies to remind us that confidence is something WE create.
Comfort creates confidence – this is one of my guiding principles during movement education, which also relates to feeling good in your own skin. Let’s embrace this philosophy and add some character to it with these 10 simple tips:
- Wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident, instead of succumbing to trends.
- Prioritize positive thoughts, use affirmations, be mindful, and replace negative thoughts with self-talk.
- If you notice that your algorithm feeds you “perfection” and stories that do not resonate with your state of mind, change it! Limit consumption of those channels and/or actively mute or block content that does not align with your values.
- Engage in physical activity to get a boost of psychological energy, but make sure it’s something you enjoy, not something you “have to” do to fit a certain image or allow yourself a little pleasure, like ice cream.
- Be kind to yourself and remember that there’s nothing wrong with having days when you don’t feel your best.
- Spend time with those who value you, as this support will work both ways.
- Get enough sleep and stay hydrated. This may seem silly, but these two things positively affect our mental well-being, endurance, and motivation to move!
- Be consistent instead of trying to do too much at once. A simple walk (you can even spread it throughout the day) that you take regularly can yield greater results than thinking about something TOO big and giving up on activity. I always say: “Small action, big benefits!”
- As Rich Roll says, “mood follows action,” so when eating, try to choose healthier options that will energize you and help you feel great from the inside out.
- Prioritize self-care and schedule regular activities that will help you recharge, such as mindfulness, massage, meditation, and more!
Ultimately, confidence is built from the inside out, not from external sources. When we feel confident from within, it affects both ourselves and our surroundings.
The text is a translation of the article https://thecore.pilates.com/confidence-not-comparison-well-being-during-warmer-months/
I used to sell cheeseburgers—that’s a true story! Today, as a “Certified La Pistola,” I’ve been active in the international fitness and Pilates industry for over 20 years, training instructors worldwide. I’m the founder of Level Up MVMT, where I help instructors elevate their craft through creative programs and research-based strategies. As a Balanced Body® Principal Educator and presenter of Pilates Anytime, I combine my passion for integrated movement with a mission to help others build burnout-free careers.