by Courtney Culnane

It’s not even called summer anymore. And we don’t mark summer by the first of June; we know it has arrived when the covers of US Weekly and People have the “How they Lost the Weight” issues. But, before freaking out, there are some things to remember before we get wrapped up in the drama of bikini season.

Before swearing off every summer BBQ, remember a few things. Unlike many articles will report, this can be a good thing. It can be a powerful time to look at yourself. It could just be the appropriate motivation to adapt a healthier lifestyle and boost your confidence or appreciate the body you have worked hard to get. Where people get caught up though, is not looking at themselves but the girl on the cover. Competing with a photo-shopped image can be a dangerous road to nowhere.

Some statistics to help you cope with comparisons: there are three billion women in the world who are not considered supermodels and about eight women who are. And the gorgeous Marilyn Monroe (who is tattooed on Megan Fox’s arm) would be a size 14 today. Additionally, if you think that your future stick figure will catch a man’s attention, countless studies prove that the emaciated model look is unattractive to most men but confidence has been proven to be the most desirable characteristic a woman can have.

Although everyone gets caught up with body image at some point in their life, you have the power to stop it from consuming yourself. Be proud of the person you are inside and it will be reflected on the outside.