Body Dismorphia and motivation

[trip h]

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) (previously known as Dysmorphophobia[1] and sometimes referred to as Body dysmorphia) (also known as "Dysmorphic syndrome," and "Dysmorphophobia"[2]) is a psychiatric disorder in which the affected person is excessively concerned about and preoccupied by an imagined or minor defect in their physical features. The sufferer may complain of several specific features or a single feature, or a vague feature or general appearance, causing psychological distress that impairs occupational and/or social functioning, sometimes to the point of complete social isolation.[3] It is estimated that 1-2% of the world's population meet all the diagnostic criteria for BDD.

I have been working on my body for 10 years now and it seems that I am NEVER happy with where I'm at. I always want to be bigger or leaner, and it causes me to get frustrated and lose motivation. After about 6 consec. weeks i usually end up getting frustrated and stopping for a few weeks untill i feel like absolute shit and start up again. (currently 13 straight weeks, yay me)People are always telling me about the noticable changes and how good or big or thin im getting but I never see it. I always have the same picture in my mind no matter what my eyes see. I look at other people either in the gym or on the street and im like man why can't I look like that, even though in some cases I actually am bigger or more cut or leaner than that person, I just don't see myself the way other I look to other people. The only time I feel good is immediatly after a workout when im all pumped and vascular and jacked. I know im not alone, what helps you stay motivated?

 

[dabuffguy]

I just look at where I was at before hand and it scares me to look like such a weak little pansy ever again. That's all the motivation I need.

 

[fortunatesun]

You know, I think many bodybuilders or people who work out at the gym regularly feel that way to some degree. I remember reading interviews with Frank Zane and Lou Ferrigno about this. I believe Larry Scott also said he had issues this way.

Zane offered up some advice which I remembered and can tell you from personal experience is very helpful. First, do what dabuffguy said. Look at where you started and compare that to where you are today. I was on more on the other side of the spectrum: 185 lbs. of bulk developed by playing on the chess team.

Next, take a few deep breaths and realize you have to take it one day at a time. It's a long journey and the fastest car still won't get you there overnight. You need to take the pressure off and focus that energy into something you can use.

It's not just learning to believe in yourself. It's also learning to believe in other people. When they say positive things about your physique, take their word for it. Respect their opinion let it improve your own self confidence.

Work on life outside the gym. Connecting with friends and family, developing other interests, education - all these things will fill out your life and put what you're doing in perspective. It's part of what 'the lifestyle' means, not just the few hrs. a day you've spent training.

 

[trip h]

I found a picture of me when i was in high school at 170 lbs. i that shit up in my locker next to a current one.. now i want one to put next to that!

 

[Burpees]

I feel that way but I don't let it phase me.. like it was said, get out there, make some friends, be sociable..