Accepting the Unattainable Ideal

Ever since I can remember I have criticized my body.  Although I have never swayed too far from my ideal weight, it has never been good enough for me.  I work out six times a week, every week, and watch what I eat.  I have tried countless dieting fads and lifestyle changes, always on the look out for the newest perspective on weight loss.  And still……I do not like what I see in the mirror.  I am a work in progress.  What I have realized that I am not alone.  People everywhere are in the exact same place as me in terms of their self perception of their bodies.  I have had this image in my mind for such a long time.  It took a while finding a mannequin that did not break the bank, and bringing her home in pieces was quite an adventure.  I am convinced my neighbours think that I have truly lost my marbles.  But, I wanted to create a reminder to myself that maybe, just maybe my “ideal” body is not ideal for me and I should accept me for me.  I’m not saying that I am going to stop taking care of myself…..hell no….I have a whole lot more living to do, but what I am going to try to do is to stop being so damn critical of myself and offer myself a new way of looking at me.  One that is positive, supportive and loving.