Although 97 percent of Canadians agree that a positive attitude can help them achieve their goals, according to the recent Kellogg’s Special K Fight Fat Talk Survey, two thirds (66 per cent) of Canadian women still admit to ‘Fat Talk’ – a de-motivating and contagious negative dialogue about their own or another’s body. Whether sparked by an unflattering photo or shopping for jeans, these negative comments are a significant barrier to weight management success.
Unfortunately, the truth is that negativity has become normalized in our culture and it’s weighing women down. In 2014, it’s time to put positivity first and shift the weight management conversation to a more positive one.
Special K is encouraging women to turn the conversation around by silencing the negativity and steering the conversation to be more positive and productive. In fact, recent Special K research shows that women who think positively are more likely to report success with their weight management efforts and are eight times less likely to gain weight than women who think negatively about their weight.
KELLOGG’S SPECIAL K THINK POSITIVE TIPS
Think Before You Speak
‘Fat Talk’ is a defense mechanism for many Canadian women. In fact, when asked why they are most likely to engage in ‘Fat Talk’, 45 per cent of Canadian women answered: “It’s better for me to criticize myself before anyone else.” Be gentle on yourself! Silence negative thoughts internally before they manifest themselves externally.
Change the Conversation When ‘Fat Talk’ Comes Up
Women who think positively about weight management were more likely to put a stop to negative conversations about their own or others bodies. You can be a positive influence on yourself and others.
Stop Comparing Yourself to Other Women
Thirty five per cent of Canadian women between the ages of 18-34 are most likely to ‘Fat Talk’ when looking at photos of other women. Instead, let the others around you inspire you to achieve your goals.
Say Something You Like About Yourself Every Time You Self-Criticize
Vocalizing the positive will help to shut down the negative.