For some people, exercise and diet are not enough to get them where they want to be on their health journey as medical issues prevent them from achieving their goals.

It can lead to depression, feeling defeated and sad; it can also take away the needed motivation to continue to exercise and eat well.

Although feeling confident in your body right now may feel impossible, these helpful tips can hopefully improve your body image over time.

1. Stay out of the mirror

Just like we react to a number on a scale, similar feelings erupt when we stand in front of a mirror and, ultimately, judge our reflection. Looking to make sure you haven’t ballooned overnight can be okay sometimes, however if you continue to see an image you don’t like you might start to hate it. Step away from full-body mirrors for a while. You’d be surprised at how you feel when you are less focused on what you see.

2. Grab some new outfits

Sometimes it is comfortable to hold on to clothes that don’t fit in the hope that it will motivate you to lose the weight. If the clothes you are wearing aren’t comfortable you’ll be constantly reminded of the parts of your body that they don’t fit. This can cause feelings of negativity and shame; feelings which can be avoided. Buy clothes that fit your body now. You should feel comfortable in your clothes regardless of your size.

3. Stop pursuing weight loss

The best way to avert body insecurity is to stop pursuing weight loss. Try choosing health as your main goal. Start exercising when it feels good. Eat the healthy foods that your body craves. Listen to your body and treat health problems with a healthy lifestyle rather than focusing on weight loss. Try to make small healthy dietary changes because they feel good, not because of how they might affect your body weight.

4. Appreciate your body

Start forming an appreciation for your body that doesn’t involve your physical attributes. Think of all the awesome things that your body does for you daily. It helps you move, breathe, lift things, laugh and so much more. Create a journal where you write positive notes to yourself. It could be just one word, or a short positive quote of thankfulness for what your body is accomplishing for you. Refer back to it when you are having negative feelings or struggling with insecurities. Remember that there are so many incredible reasons to celebrate your amazing body, even if it’s not your desired size.

5. Choose your relationships wisely

Yes your body may be larger now. You may be afraid that people will judge you or like you less because of your size. However do you value relationships because they like the way you look? Or are your relationships a little more substance filled? If your friends like you less because of your appearance then you should truly evaluate whether those are friendships you want to continue to pursue. Don’t forget, you don’t need anyone to dictate how you think or feel about yourself or your body.

Stay encouraged, confident and B-Active For Life!

Betty Doyling is a certified fitness trainer and figure competitor with more than a decade of experience. Look for B. ActiveForLife on Facebook