Everyone loves to see the results of hard work when it comes to nutrition and exercise. So many fitness and diet programmes garner followings with marketing that features 'transformation' pictures - we've all seen them and how inspirational they can be. So why would before/after photos be a problem?

There can be value in using photos to track whether changes you're making are being effective, however, there are issues with using this method of comparison.

What does 'after' really mean?

'After' photos draw a specific connection between your achievements and your appearance, this is when we begin to tie appearance in with self-worth.

Just because our appearance changes doesn't necessarily indicate our inward health, confidence or happiness. This is why we prefer to focus on how you feel - do you have more energy? Are you happy? Do you feel empowered?

The other problem with this is that 'after' photos are never the end of our journey, they are a snapshot of that moment in time and there will still be plenty more 'after' moments to come!

What about the 'before' and the comparison?

Comparisons of this kind also imply that there's something wrong with our 'before' image. That things about it require fixing. Placing these photos side-by-side also gives opportunity to over-scrutinise our appearance. Your 'before' is part of your journey and it's not something to be ashamed or embarrassed about.

And what about viewing other peoples' before/after pictures? We don't really know what process they went through to undergo that transformation. They might be promoting the results of a fitness programme, but what was their nutrition like? Did they exercise safely? What else was going on in their lives? We never get the full picture, and while the comparison can seem inspirational there are a lot of pieces to the puzzle that are typically missing for us as viewers.

What is 'perfect'?

While we're talking about body image and photos, let's also discuss the photos we see in the media and on the internet. Fitness professionals, models, bloggers with seemingly perfect bods. Many of the body positive influencers out there have begun to understand their responsibility to those viewing their images, and remind us of what goes into those 'perfect' bodies. Perfect lighting. Perfect camera angles. Perfect poses.

It can feel tough to accept your body as it is - in whatever form - but it's worthwhile to remember that you are beautiful whatever your shape or size. Your worth and contributions to this world are not measured by how many kilos you weigh, what size clothing you wear, or any other things to do with your appearance.

Everyone deserves to feel healthy, confident, valued, strong and beautiful.

Own your progress!

If you have made some outward changes that you're super proud of and worked hard for, there's nothing wrong with shouting it from the rooftops! You've done something for yourself and your own health, and that's incredible.

But just remember that an 'after' photo is not the end of your body's journey - of your journey. It's your 'now'. It doesn't define you and it may not be where you are in 5 years time. Or 10 years time. The photos we share with the world continue to define us in society - so share the photos that , no version of you is 'better' than the other.

Image / Grace, Grit & Gratitude