Allison is a highly accomplished professional, internationally recognized for her award-winning podcast, Late Learner, and her Effective Collective membership program for high-performing mothers. However, today’s topic is different. In this episode, Allison shares her vulnerable story about body dysmorphia and how it has impacted her life. She opens up about the struggles and pain she has faced on her journey.
This deeply personal conversation with Allison sheds light on the struggles and pain experienced by those with body dysmorphia. As a woman nearing 46 years old, I’m also sharing my own experiences with trying to achieve societal standards of perfection and how this has impacted my life.
From hair coloring to wearing Spanx, we discuss the societal pressures that women face to look perfect. This is an important topic that resonates with all women, regardless of age or background. Listen in to this powerful episode as Allison shares her story and provides valuable insights into overcoming body dysmorphia.
We’d also love to know your thoughts on this topic and join us in embracing self-love and acceptance!
Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation:
- Breaking convention through the lens of continuous learning
- Allison’s journey dealing with body dysmorphia
- How the Tarot reading gave her permission to try something new
- Breaking free from the pressure to be perfect
- The power of a pleasant smile
Episode Highlights:
[05:58] Overcoming Body Dysmorphia
Body dysmorphia is defined as a mental health condition where a person spends a lot of time worrying about flaws in their appearance, and where the flaws are often unnoticeable to others. Allison developed body dysmorphia and control issues after having children through IVF at 40 and 38. She strived to regain her pre-baby body, which led to an addiction to working out and nutrition, called orthorexia. Despite hiring trainers and nutritionists, restricting her food intake, and measuring everything she ate, she couldn’t get rid of her “pooch”. This obsession with her BMI and borderline obesity levels pushed Allison to seek therapy before it consumed her life.
[20:18] Allison’s Journey to Self-Love
Allison describes her experience of feeling pressure to maintain a perfect appearance, even as she enters a new phase of life. She notices imperfections in her body and feels the urge to fix them, but recognizes the harm that this obsession causes and the need to shift her focus to more positive pursuits. This realization was the beginning of her journey toward self-love and acceptance, which ultimately led to the creation of her podcast and other hobbies. Allison’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact that societal standards of beauty can have on one’s mental health and the importance of prioritizing self-care over external validation.
Resources Mentioned:
If you’ve been dreaming of writing a nonfiction book but don’t know where to begin, check out www.activateauthor.com and learn how you can complete a book manuscript in only 90 days.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
