You open up Instagram and start scrolling through the tens or hundreds of shirtless pictures...
It seems like it's the trend. I mean whenever I personally post one, I tend to get a lot more engagement. Now the paradox of looking at such images is that it's a good thing AND a bad thing. What we fail to remember is that the constant bombardments of such images have a strong and direct influence on our subconscious mind which affect our mental state which can affect our health. Looking for inspiration through these images could get you to move - but it could also get you to collapse and find yourself even more miserable. I used to constantly compare myself to other models or physique competitors failing to recognize how good I already look. My thoughts would turn from "you have a killer physique " to "I'm not big enough" or "I'm not as shredded as him". We focus on what he/she has and what we don't have. I mean no matter how much we do, we will find something or someone that seems better. This sounds very destructive doesn't it? I get it - we are attracted to attractive human beings. But what we forget is that we are attractive ourselves. We just don't see it because we are constantly comparing ourselves to others. We forget to take a moment to look in the mirror and see the beauty that's radiating. But that's easier said than done. That's because we've created a cycle of negative thinking and continued feeding it. So how can we get out of this vicious cycle? Ever try to write something with your left when you're right-handed? Well if you're constantly comparing yourself with others and focusing on what you don't have then that paradigm simply cannot shift without constant and consistent training Here are a few things you can do:
1 ) Use Social Media don't let it use you
Find inspiration through words and stories rather than just physical appearance. When you focus on the internal qualities, the surface image becomes more attractive and a healthier association sticks with you. By following someone just for their looks - well you're back to square one.
2) Write 5 things you like about yourself every morning
Love yourself and show appreciation. With time, this will reverse the negative paradigm that has been created.
3) Meditate
You will get to know yourself on a much deeper level. You can't solve a problem if you don't know it exists.
4) Surround yourself with positive people.
Negative energy sticks. Get away from the drama. Get away from the gossip.
5) Visualize sexiness
Before you go to bed, see yourself as magnet that attracts positive and loving people into your life. While you're at it, visualize that sexy six pack abs ;)!