Every person’s body is beautiful in its own way, but maybe you have something that makes you feel self-conscious about yours. Being born with an imperfection can completely change the way you feel about yourself and can make you shy away from social situations. It isn’t shameful to want to change a feature you don’t like, regardless of what that is. The choice to change how you look is a personal one that only you can make, and if it will make you feel better about yourself, why not?
The first step is deciding what you’re comfortable with and how you want to approach your personal journey. Make sure – above all else – you’re doing this for you and not another person. Knowing what you want makes this journey a lot easier, and setting those goals for yourself becomes exciting rather than a chore. Here are some ways you can get results you’ll be proud of.
Hit the gym
Everyone wants the perfect beach-ready body, and if you can put the time and work into your own, the gym is the best place to start. There are plenty of tips out there from fitness experts if that’s the route you want to take. If you’re happy with your shape but want to tone up or simply be more active, there are plenty of ways to do that at a gym as well. You don’t have to do intense cardio or lift weights – most gyms offer classes that anyone at any level of fitness can enjoy and get a good workout.
Get cosmetic surgery
Cosmetic and reconstructive surgery can be life-changing for some people. Whether you were born with an imperfection or developed something you feel self-conscious about later in life, there are many procedures you can opt for to help you love how your body looks. The rise in cosmetic surgery[1] [2] [3] rates in South Africa and across the world seems to indicate that enhancement surgeries are becoming more socially acceptable and are an increasingly popular way to feel more comfortable in your own body.[4] [5]
One way to pay for cosmetic surgery is through your insurance. Some health insurance providers and medical aids will cover specific plastic surgery procedures, so talk to your doctor and provider to find out if you’re eligible for cover. Ultimately, the medical aid determines which procedures will be covered, so it’s worth it to compare medical aids to find one that might cover your specific surgery.
Get a makeover
Sometimes all we need is a little style refresh! Your transformation doesn’t need to be as dramatic as weight loss or cosmetic surgery if you don’t want it to be. After all, you’re already beautiful. Fixing up your wardrobe and finding the right clothes that fit in the right places can make all the difference to your self-esteem. Changing your hair or doing your makeup or nails are also good ways to give yourself a little more oomph and boost your confidence, because who doesn’t need a confidence boost every once in a while?