Express yourself
Most people consider weight a very personal issue. An overweight person who suffers from poor self-esteem as a result may look in the mirror and disparagingly wonder, "why would anyone be attracted to me when I look like this?"
But elucidating these doubts to the person with whom they are most intimate physically and emotionally is still difficult. Confessing feelings of unattractiveness connotes that weight has a negative effect on the relationship, rather than the lack of self-esteem that is the result of excess weight and poor body image.
Jack would find it far more beneficial to be honest with Eileen by expressing his feelings of frustration and envy. Eileen, a conditioned athlete, could help Jack get on the track to fitness by helping him design an exercise plan, and even include him in her own. However, if he rejects her constructive criticism about his dieting methods, Eileen won't feel inclined to ask Jack with his weight loss plan unless he asks.Open the lines of communication
Understanding the person who struggles with poor body image begins by opening the lines of communication. If your spouse or significant other opens up to you, the biggest gift you can give them is your unconditional acceptance of whatever feelings and thoughts they experience.
