Believe You Are Gorgeous

Unflattering photos that make us look old or overweight can steal our self-esteem, especially when they are all over social media. Here are some psychological tips to change the way they make us feel.

• Stop seeing yourself - and other women - purely in terms of shape and size. Instead of greating female friends with 'You look great, have you lost weight?' try 'It's great to see you, you look really happy'.
• Start treating your body with respect and value it for the amazing piece of machinery that it is. Focus on diet and exercise as a way of maintaining your health and youthful energy.
• Limit your demands for reassurance - confidence comes when we stop looking to other people for affirmation and accept that we, and our bodies, are good enough.

Good Housekeeping, February 2015