>>Imagine what would happen if women decided that building mental strength was as important as pumping up our biceps. We could start businesses. Earn degrees. Travel. Uncover new talents.

And imagine the economic power we'd have if we stopped giving our money to Jenny Craig and started saving, investing, or spending it on life-enhancing adventures.

"I have a theory that dieting is a way to make women disappear," says Rosa, 30. The less space we take up, the less power we have."

Although men are becoming more conscious of their bodies these days, Rosa points out, "Men work out to get stronger, to take up more room in the world. Women try to get smaller, daintier, until we just turn into pretty little things who can only think about how many grams of fat we've eaten today."

You are responsible for taking care of yourself—and this may mean adding some activity and healthy foods into your life. But to neglect your inner self and favor your body is a waste of your gifts.

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