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The Importance of Eating Habits and How It Played a Role in My Self-Image
We are molded by our experiences and how we are conditioned as children.
Disclaimer: This experience is my own and may not be true for all children/people who are naturally slim or children who were force-fed.
Growing up, my parents ensured that me and my siblings knew how fortunate we were to have food in our bellies, clothing on our back and shelter over our heads.
We learned early on to be grateful for what we had. These values are still a huge part of my life today.
However, my parents’ and other adults concern of how slim we were only grew as time passed. So did our food portions.
As a kid, I struggled to sit and finish my meals. All I wanted to do was play games with my siblings or read or draw or ANYTHING ELSE besides eat.
Between the ages of 6–11, I remember running around and being reminded to “finish your food!!” at every single meal. Even when we were tired and feeling full.
There are a few key emotions I want to address with what is called “psychological blackmail”.
- Shame: “Look how much bigger your brother/sister/friend is!”
- Guilt: “So many people are starving in the world! You need to eat!”