Class Reunion Panic!

Uh oh! Class reunion time. Nothing like a little pressure! What better time to obsess about our appearance? Forget about having fun. This is a test!

Will they see who we always were, and they missed the first time? Will we be able to Show Them? What if we not only don’t dazzle, but observe pitying glances and murmurs of “Oh! Hasn’t he/she changed!” Oh no!

Of course in these anxious fantasies we rarely remember that everyone will have changed. These common panics are seldom reasonable.

Anyway, you’re in the midst of major self-attack, wanting to make yourself over NOW!!!! You can schedule a haircut, shop for clothes that support your confidence, but oh, that body, those extra pounds, the chin!

Old option: You try starving yourself and working out vigorously every day, boot camp style. I know you’ve thought of that! It’s too bad that approach usually makes most people so hungry they eat everything in sight and so sore they never want to move again!

Different option: Instead of harsh self-punishment, focus on taking such good, gentle care of yourself between now and then that your inner self will not be buried under shame, self-judgment, or the need for external approval.

Increase your level of physical activity, gradually. Exercise can help your energy, sense of well-being and aliveness. Not to mention your confidence! Then watch funny movies. Relax. Spend time with people you love. Remind yourself how to play.

Instead of trying to please people you haven’t seen in a long time, make it your goal to be pleased with yourself. Happiness is more inviting than shame, and before you know it, you’ll be irresistible!

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