Obesity can take a toll on one’s self-esteem. Extended periods of dealing with obesity can attribute to social isolation, self- hatred, depression and low self-esteem. Patients who go through with weight loss surgery often look forward to their dating life to improve. But for those who think that this is the complete solution to their dating life, they might find out otherwise. If one wants to have a gratifying and fulfilling relationship with a potential significant other, then you should actively engage in improving your self-esteem. According to psychotherapist and author Nathaniel Branden, “Self-esteem is the disposition to experience oneself as being competent to cope with the basic challenges of life and of being worthy of happiness.” Simply put, it’s important to cultivate a healthy relationship with one’s self before getting into one with another.
HOW TO HAVE A RELATIONSHIP WITH SELF
THE GOLDEN RULE: Treat yourself as you want someone else to treat you. It’s The Golden Rule. Simply put, learn to treat yourself to the pleasantries and perks that you would do for a significant other. Regardless of what you do, it will be towards the active and healthy relationship you are having with yourself.
THINK POSITIVE: Replace any negative thoughts you have with the ones that are positive. An optimist’s mentality is contagious and will rub off on all aspects of your life and improve it. Positive thinking will propel you towards positive actions, leading to more self-satisfaction.
REACH OUT: When looking for advice or feedback at any point in time, make sure to reach out to a trusted friend, therapist, confidant, parent, sibling or even your patient coordinator, doctor or nutritionist.
SURROUND YOURSELF WITH POSITIVE PEOPLE: Being around positive individuals and cultivating friendships with them will lead them to comment and give positive feedback on the new you.
BELIEVE IN YOUR TRANSFORMATION: Think about how far you’ve come and the exciting journey ahead towards reaching your weight loss goals. Believe in the bigger picture and learn to love yourself throughout without guilt. Once you are intentional with your actions towards achieving your goals, it will help you with a smooth transition into the new you.