Body Image Mindset Series, Part 2: Design the Way You See Yourself

What Do You Really Want to See When You Look in the Mirror?In this second episode of our subscriber-only Body Image Mindset Series, Cheryl guides you through a surprisingly simple but powerful exercise: deciding what you actually want your relationship with your body to be.Most of us walk around critiquing our bodies on autopilot — noticing every flaw, every angle, every “problem area” we think needs fixing. But very few of us ever stop to ask:What do I truly want to see when I look in the mirror? How do I want to feel about myself? What parts of me do I already think are beautiful?Today’s episode slows everything down and helps you reset the direction your brain is headed. Because if you don't define where you’re going, your mindset won't magically wander there on its own.This is a pen-and-paper episode — a journaling, brainstorming, “let me get honest with myself for a minute” episode. It’s gentle. It’s grounding. And it will absolutely shift how you move through the world.In This Episode, We Explore:Why you need a direction for your body imageWe set goals for our careers, families, health, and finances — but we treat how we see ourselves like something that “just happens.” Today, you’ll begin defining what you want your self-image to be so your brain knows where to go.The essential question: How do you want to see yourself?Not a number. Not a size. Not a measurement. Think: confident, vibrant, classic, strong, approachable, fun, stylish, athletic, magnetic.You choose the words. You choose the vision.Why writing down the negative thoughts mattersIf your brain is shouting criticisms first, get them out. On paper. In ink. Then? Rip that paper to shreds. It’s symbolic, yes — but it works.How to identify your favorite featuresCheryl shares her own examples and then you’ll choose at least three features you love — and then practice noticing those first every time you see your reflection.The “glimmer” concept applied to body imageJust like we train the brain to spot tiny moments of joy, we can train it to spot what we love about our bodies. The more your brain recognizes the good, the more it will look for it.Your Guided Journal Prompts From TodayHow do I want to see myself? Think adjectives, descriptors, the vibe you want to radiate.How do I want others to see me? Confident? Approachable? Dynamic? Strong? Elegant? Creative?What are three (or more) features I genuinely love about my body? These become your new “first stop” for your eyes.What negative thoughts do I need to release today? Write them on paper — then rip, rip, rip.If I included a goal weight or size, why that one? Is it grounded in real health… or comparison?This mindset shift doesn’t require you to be a different size, shape, or age. It asks you to be different inside your own mind.Your brain can learn a new way of seeing your body — one that honors it instead of criticizing it — and today’s episode is the first real step in that retraining.Keep working on your lists, keep noticing those glimmers, and I’ll see you next week for Part 3.Support the show🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence!🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us.💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation?Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/rechargeLet’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women.Connect with Cheryl: Instagram | LinkedIn | Website---------------💡If you are a brand or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast.  More information here.