Let's face it - we, as Americans, are bombarded with images, ideas, and concepts that lead us to have varying degrees of self image. Body image is a large aspect of self image, and can definitely play a part when it comes to having confidence and self esteem. While most of us may be aware of the fact that a negative body image can lead to poor self esteem (and vice versa), there are also many of us are not aware of the good news of it all. The good news is that we can start improving (or maintaining) our body image today, by following the few steps I outline here.

Be A Bit "Snobbish" Regarding Your Influences

By no means am I suggesting to think you're better than others all of the sudden or that others are unimportant and inferior; I am suggesting that you be snobbish in the way that you let influences into your life. Surround yourself with people who have the traits you want to have; and no, I don't mean you have to surround yourself with people who have washboard abs and people who work out 15+ hours a week, but you should surround yourself with people who are generally comfortable with the way they are and the way they look, and this will rub off on you.

Be More Aware of "Subtle" Influences

You have a choice when it comes to the influence of the fitness guru’s, TV commercials, infomercials, magazines, celebrities, and whoever else setting the supposed “example” of what ideal bodies look like - you have the choice to ignore them, or you have the choice to envy them. Simply limit yourself to these types of influences, and realize that their main goal is to entertain or make a quick buck - not to have you feeling good about who you are now and the way you look now.

Take Good Care of Your "Vehicle"

Remembering that your body is your vehicle is a good way to remind you to take care of, maintain, and appreciate yourself. Your body isn't all of who you are, it is simply a vehicle that takes you where you want to go in life and helps you do what you want to do. But just like any other vehicle, it needs maintenance, care, and appreciation in order for it to run strongly and smoothly for its lifetime.

You don't need to become an outright snob when it comes to your body image, you just need to remember to guard your mind when it comes to outside influences that may be doing you harm. Just like you wouldn't let a child hang out with someone who is a bad influence, you should do the same for yourself - and this includes TV, commercials, magazines, and everything else as well. If you take care of your vehicle and keep a good state of mind, you are well on your way to having (or maintaining) high self esteem and confidence.