Envy

Each post, I add a picture that I took. For those who want to know.

Humans spend a lot of time wishing for things that others have, and I'm no different.

When I had three kids in car seats, I was annoyed that I had to work with my mid-size SUV instead of a bigger vehicle. I envied people who had better transportation.

Yep, I just admitted to minivan jealousy. Hello, adulthood.




The list of wanting things that others have includes things like:

• A kitchen pantry.
• A second bathroom. 
• Family vacations.
• Better workout clothes.
• ... this list could go on for a while...

The things we want vary based on who we are and what we value. But one thing that a lot of people have in common when it comes to envy is bodies.

Have you ever looked at a "fitspiration" post and wished you looked like that? That you had hair like that, abs like that, legs like that, or could wear clothes the same way?

It's easy to get lost in body envy, but there is nothing less constructive.

Envy over things you want but don't have never helps with positivity or gratitude, but body envy is one of the most dangerous types.

You could build a pantry, or move to a house that has one. You could save up for a cool family vacation. But you can't have someone else's body. Even if you work out the same as another person, eat the same food, or even get the same surgery -- your body will still be your body, and you'll never look like anybody but you.

So, make goals for yourself. Don't make a goal to look like someone else, or waste time wishing that your body was their body instead.

Start to see the good things about your own body, and accept the things that could be improved (and improve them, if you can). What are some of the great things your body is? What are some of the great things your body can do?

I have great hair. It is thick, it's a nice color. I have good skin. My teeth are straight. My eyes are green. I'm short, and that's not bad. I have good hands. They can play the piano, and bake things, and write stuff, and do the work I need to get done every day. I can sing, and I do almost every day as I drive my kids the places they need to be. I'm a good researcher. I have an excellent memory.

Spend time each day being grateful for being yourself, for having the body you have. You can only ever be you.