Last week my friend told me she was skipping her husband’s annual office picnic this year. She said she’d gained at least 5–10 pounds since the last time she saw his co-workers, and couldn’t handle their judging eyes. She also said she would never want to “embarrass” her husband. WHAT? I couldn’t believe my ears. Here is a smart, beautiful, fun woman who is missing a party because of a little weight gain?
I can’t honestly say I don’t understand. I used to feel the exact same way. I had been on the dieting wheel of frustration for so long, losing and gaining the same 30–40–50 pounds, it was exhausting. And the parties were the worst. I loved going when my weight was “down” and dreaded them when my weight was “up.” It wasn’t until I realized I’m more than a silly number on the scale that I started to truly love myself and take care of myself.
But, I know it can be a vicious cycle, if you don’t say, “Enough is enough!” And, “enough” would definitely be categorized as missing a party because of a number! The way we feel is reflected in the image that we put out there into the world, so if we feel bad, we won’t likely be an attractive conversation partner. As a matter of fact, if we feel bad, we may shrink into a corner to avoid real conversation at all costs, right? Or, we may overcompensate, and make fun of ourselves or put ourselves down for a laugh. Neither is a good option! Instead, this summer party season, let your best self shine through!
Sure, if you’re really worried about the visual, here are five tips to take off 5–10 pounds in less than five minutes! Follow these tips to look great, feel great, and have a blast at any party, regardless of your size!
A Smile Is Our Best Accessory
Forget about the notion that you have to look a certain way when you go to parties or to impress people. Impress yourself first, and you will be irresistible to everyone! Live the best version of your life possible. Do things that bring you real joy. People are attracted to those who are happy and content! Decide to be happy, and let your face show it!
If that’s not enough to get you to grin and go to the party, here’s something else to consider: smiles are slimming! There are two reasons why our smiles are slimming. First, and most importantly, our energy is contagious, and we look amazing when we are confident, happy, and interested in learning about other people! Second, a big smile also can slim your face, because naturally our cheeks go up, causing a more oval-like appearance. A glum expression causes our face to sag, and the “puppy dog” droopy face can appear a little rounder.
Call Attention Where You Want Attention
Along with your genuine smile, add an accessory, just one, and make it BIG! Too many accessories can attract unwanted attention, and make us look a little cluttered. We can place a big accessory where we want to attract attention, to maximize our best feature. If you have a great smile, a pair of big earrings will bring the focus to your face, if you have great hands and a fresh manicure, throw on a big cocktail ring or cuff-style bracelet. If you love your collarbone or shoulders, a big pendant will do the trick!
Belt It Down
A perfectly placed belt can give us the shape and cinch we need to accentuate our smallest part. The mistake so many of us make is trying to “hide” the larger parts, and we end up adding bulk! Think small, and forget about the rest! Decide where you want the belt to be placed, and choose belt width wisely. Remember, skinny belts may be trendy, but often don’t do a good job with really “belting” the area, and it could just add an extra layer!
