Do you avoid the camera's lens? Do you avert your eyes when you walk past a full-length mirror? It's time to take a look and learn to love what you see.

Many people are harder on themselves than anyone else would be. Have you ever leaned right close to the mirror and examined your pores up close? Seriously, who else is going to inspect your skin at such close range? For some, perceived flaws about themselves can lead to a lowered body image and can start a vicious circle.

For example, if someone feels they're overweight, instead of that being a motivating factor it might depress them and lead to shame about their own body. Subsequently, they might gain more weight and the vicious circle begins.

If this sounds familiar to you, you can break the circle by being a little gentler, and a little kinder to yourself. You can start by taking a good, long look in a full-length mirror. Your body is a pretty amazing thing -- flaws and all. So maybe your thighs are a little bigger than you'd like -- do they still get you from point A to point B? Maybe your arms aren't toned and fit -- but they can carry and lift and perform all the other tasks you need them to.

When we get so wrapped up in perfection, we forget what truly amazing instruments our bodies are. Learn to appreciate your strength, your curves, your beauty, and even your imperfections. When you can accept and love who you are, you'll find it even easier to take good care of your body, providing it with good nutrition and consistent exercise.