As many as 80 percent of American women dislike
their bodies, according to the Seattle-based National Eating
Disorders Association. While there are no easy ways to improve
one’s body image, here are some practical tips on self-acceptance
from Jean Kilbourne, author of
Can’t Buy My Love: How
Advertising Changes the Way We Think and Feel (
www.jeankilbourne.com).
"Ditch the diet. “Dieting is always a bad idea.
It’s more important to exercise and enjoy good food in moderation,”
Kilbourne says.
"Be sensitive when remarking on others’
appearance, however well intended. Don’t even say, “You look great.
Did you lose weight?”
"Rather than obsess about perceived flaws, focus
on aspects of your body that you like.
"Buy well-fitting clothes that boost your
self-esteem.
"Eliminate habitual self-deprecation. “That kind
of talk is harmful,” Kilbourne says.