As your family moves toward healthier habits, such as walking together for 30 minutes a day, five days a week, look for ways to promote a positive body image. Airbrushed images of unrealistically skinny models have driven some people to try extreme diets or even develop eating disorders. These misguided expectations can trip up your steps to healthy self-esteem.

Instead of striving for something unrealistic (and unhealthy), focus on improving your health with these ideas:

• Thin isn’t always in. One study found that thin people who didn’t exercise were actually at higher risk for health problems than those who were heavier but worked out regularly. And staying fit not only improves physical health, it also boosts self-image and reduces depression and anxiety. Rather than comparing yourself to supermodels and bodybuilders, concentrate on developing an active lifestyle.

• Think positive. Seek out supportive people who always have your back. Avoid influences that can lead you astray, such as websites, TV shows, and magazines fixated on “perfect” but unrealistic figures.

• Play the part. Even if you don’t always feel positive, you can still act that way. Uncross your arms, lift your chin, flash that smile. You don’t have to be perfect to model healthy habits, either. By acting confident, you’ll help encourage it — in yourself and others.

Aspire to a healthy lifestyle — and a healthy self-image — for you and your family.