In modern societies the media is full of pictures of "ideal (理想的) bodies". The "perfect" male is handsome, tall and muscular and their "perfect" female equivalent is beautiful, firm and seemingly impossibly thin. These "perfect" people are seen to have happiness, wealth and partners. The hidden message is "be like this and you can have these things, too". This is what creates the pressure in most people-aspiring to these idealized body images. We want these things and we think this is the way to get them. This pressure affects a lot of men and women and, increasingly, boys and girls. Many people ignore the fact that the idealized body images that surround them are just that idealized and actually impossible for most of us. This can lead to poor self-esteem (自尊) and lack of confidence. Remember the vast majority of people don't have perfect bodies. It doesn't actually mean you can't have the positive things. The biggest myth is there are many ways to be attractive beyond the stereotype, It's certainly not always the best-looking person that gets the girl or guy. Most of us are much more likely to talk and get to know somebody who is friendly and approachable rather than a more physically attractive self-centered person. Recognize your advantages and make the most of them rather than dwell on imperfections. Your attitude towards yourself makes a big difference. Lack of confidence in your appearance can lead you to behave in defensive ways that appear unfriendly, and this behavior is likely to put people off rather than your appearance. Believing in yourself and feeling good about your appearance will help automatically send off more positive signals of yourself. So don't waste time trying to be a second-class somebody else but get on with being a first- class you! |