Even if you’ve never heard the term, you’ve probably engaged in fat talk many times. My thighs are huge. Oh, I can’t eat that; it’ll go straight to my stomach. I look disgusting in this dress. I need to lose 10 pounds yesterday. How we talk to ourselves – whether in private or in public – affects our body image. Negative self-talk slowly chips away at our self-image. To stop fat talk, first become aware of how often you criticize yourself. Also, consider what triggers this criticism. Are you with certain people, or at certain places? Are you doing certain things? Then consider how you can work through these triggers. If your friends start criticizing themselves (or others), change the conversation. Don’t get sucked into a cycle of negative chatter. It’s just not worth it. Building a positive body image is a process. Figure out what tips resonate with you, and take the first step.