I always wanted to look like the slim girls on TV even though I knew that it was impossible. I worried about my weight and tried every new diet I read about online. I tried no-fat, low-fat, 5:2, only bananas, no bananas—I almost went bananas, too.
Then I read an article that said instead of asking “Am I fat?” I should be asking “Am I fit?” I had no idea a letter could make such a difference! Once I started thinking about fitness rather than weight, things began to change. Instead of saying “I want to lose three kilos”, I would say “I want to run two kilometres in eight minutes” or “I want to be able to do 30 push-ups”. Rather than cutting out the foods I enjoyed, I added healthy foods to my meals. I could still have a burger now and then, but I would add a salad or an apple.
Finally, I stopped comparing myself with actresses and models and looking for things that were wrong with my face or body. Instead, I made a list of the things I liked about myself. By being positive about myself and my body, I became both happier and healthier.