As we head into 2022, talk of New Year's Resolutions are resurfacing.
While it is tempting to compare our past resolutions to our current self or switch gears to consider what future resolutions will help you meet your goals, it is equally important to slow down and appreciate where you are now.
Learning to celebrate and appreciate ourselves in every stage of our health journey — no matter if you are just beginning or if you are ticking off your goals — helps us foster healthy body image.
Just like our health goals are an ever-evolving journey that may shift with our priorities and age, so will our body positivity journey. Practicing kindness toward our bodies and all that they do for us can help us in every step of our health journey.
While there is no easy fix for being happy in our own skin or boosting low self-esteem, focusing on shifting your mindset around body positivity can help you develop a more positive outlook on not just yourself but the world around you.
We have compiled a list of inspiring body positivity quotes from experts such as therapists and authors to remind you of the beauty your body holds.
“Say goodbye to your inner critic, and take this pledge to be kinder to yourself and others.” — Oprah Winfrey, Host & philanthropist
“And I said to my body softly, ‘I want to be your friend.’ It took a long breath and replied, ‘I have been waiting my whole life for this.’” — Nayyirah Waheed, Poet, Salt
“People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.” — Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, Psychiatrist
“You have been criticizing yourself for years and it hasn’t worked. Try approving of yourself and see what happens.” — Louise Hay, Author
“To be beautiful means to be yourself. You don’t need to be accepted by others. You need to accept yourself.” — Thich Nhat Hanh, Monk & Poet
“Don’t let your mind bully your body.” — June Tomaso Wood, Therapist
“You can’t hate yourself happy. You can’t criticize yourself thin. You can’t shame yourself worthy. Real change begins with self-love and self-care.” — Jessica Ortner, Author
"Since I don't look like every other girl, it takes a while to be okay with that—to be different. But different is good.” — Serena Williams, Professional tennis player
"There is no cosmetic for beauty like happiness.” — Maria Mitchell, Astronomer
"Each individual woman's body demands to be accepted on its own terms" — Gloria Steinem, Journalist & Activist
“I’ve learned that if you’re too skinny, they’ll say something about it. If you’re not skinny enough, they’ll say something about it. I just try to feel good in my own skin as much as I can.” — Jennifer Love Hewitt, Actress
“I am allowed to look sexy, feel sexy, and be in love. I am worthy of all those things. And so are you.” — Mary Lambert, Singer
“I can’t think of any better representation of beauty than someone who is unafraid to be herself.” — Emma Stone, Actress
“No amount of self-improvement can make up for any lack of self-acceptance.” — Robert Holden, Psychologist
“Confidence is a habit that can be developed by acting as if you already had the confidence you desire to have.” — Brian Tracy, Motivational speaker
“If you are insecure, guess what? The rest of the world is, too. Do not overestimate the competition and underestimate yourself. You are better than you think.” — T. Harv Eker, Author
“A person’s worth in this world is estimated according to the value they put on themselves.” — Jean De La Bruyere, Philosopher
“Nobody can make you feel inferior without your consent.” — Eleanor Roosevelt, Former First Lady & Activist
“The confidence which we have in ourselves gives birth to much of that which we have in others.” — Francois De La Rochefoucauld, Author
“Self-esteem is made up primarily of two things: feeling lovable and feeling capable.” — Jack Canfield, Author
“Work out because you love your body, not because you hate it.” – Torre Washington, Fitness Coach
We hope these words of wisdom serve as helpful reminders to talk and think about your body in a kind manner. Try jotting some of the quotes that speak to you the most on post-it notes that you can leave around your home or in places you spend a lot of time, like the office, your car.
While our journey to self-love is a lifelong one, making positive changes such as being kinder to your body can serve as a catalyst for a more positive outlook.
Lydia McAllister is a content creator who develops helpful and compelling stories. Her passion for digital marketing and creative writing has led her to cover unique topics ranging from business to lifestyle. She calls Texas home and enjoys practicing yoga, trying out new recipes, and spending time with her adorable nephew.