Compared to Who?: A Proven Path to Improve Your Body Image

by Heather Creekmore

See your body image struggles as issues of the heart--then find freedom from body insecurity using five biblically rooted steps!

Genres: Nonfiction, Christian, Self Help, Christian Non Fiction

224 pages, Paperback

Published June 13, 2017

About the author

Speaker, blogger, author, and television failed baker, Heather Creekmore will charm you with her humor and touch you with her heart for reaching women with the breath-taking truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

A veteran of the fitness industry and wife of a pastor/church planter, Heather feels the pulse of women who wrestle with their body image and comparison. She's tried the diets, exercise gizmos (owning both a Thighmaster and a Total Gym), and expensive weight loss pills. She's battled the brownies, felt shame over pant's size, and fought that same sense of insecurity that plagues so many women.

Before marriage and four babies in five years, Heather worked in politics and non-profit management. Heather recently competed on Netflix's new reality bake-fails show, "Nailed It" (Season 1, episode 1). When's she's not destroying baked goods, Heather homeschools her brood of four children, shops clearance racks, and travels. Learn more about Heather and follow her blog at www.Comparedtowho.me.

Reviews

[Kori · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have struggled with body image problems since I was fourteen. Since becoming a Christian ten years ago, I have wondered why the typical messages of my faith community never gave me the resolution to these issues that I needed. I read scriptures about being fearfully and wonderfully made and that the Lord looks on the heart, not outward appearances - but their truth never penetrated my heart. Women told me that God loves me just the way I am and that He made all women beautiful - but their well meaning words felt stilted and cliche.

Compared to Who is the remedy for women who have felt that the typical prescriptions for Christian body image struggles don't apply to them. Through personal, guided study and sound reasoning through scripture, Heather Creekmore confronts the truth behind why many women struggle: the sources of body image problems are sin and idolatry. It's a lot more hard hitting than the feel-good "you're beautiful the way you are" message, but I walked away from this book with a new perspective on my struggle against the flesh. It is only through acceptance of the Lord Jesus Christ's sacrificial death and resurrection and being saved by grace through faith that women can overcome this struggle. This book will show you how to put your faith into action to reject the body image lies.

[Allison Joy Hammond · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first was introduced to Heather when she came to speak to my MOPS (mothers of preschoolers) group several years ago. I've followed her blog since then and was thrilled to receive an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. Honestly, I wanted to read this book so I could offer this amazing resource to other women. I had no idea how much this would change my life! I've struggled with body image in various forms my entire life. I grew up in the church and have heard the typical church responses for 30 years. They did very little to help change my heart, and in so many ways made my struggle so much worse. But this book is different. It is NOT what you'd expect from a book on Christian body image. It is Scripturally sound and provides so much hope! I could go on and on about how these concepts have transformed my life, but "the proof is in the pudding". The other day my husband began noticing the change. Out of the blue he said "Honey, you are glowing today! And you haven't been tugging at your shirt like you're uncomfortable in your skin. I like you like this. Be this confident more often!"

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not bad. Maybe 3-3.5 for enjoyment and 4 for material. Once I got used to the writing style it became better to read, and the material seemed better as I went along as well. I think in quite a few ways, it reminded me of the Freedom of Self Forgetfulness (which she might quote a few times) but more specific on this subject. So if you really struggle in this area, this more detailed book is probably great. Overall, good biblical concepts I think, and I liked the memory verse included with each chapter/steps.
I read the book because I think a friend really liked it, not because I feel like this is a big struggle for me. So I preferred a broader, more encompassing book like The Freedom of Self Forgetfulness by Keller. But this book did have some striking points, and I'll try to remember them when I see my very stretched self in the mirror. :p

[Molly Mercer · Rating 5 out of 5]

True freedom!

This book was convicting and thought provoking but full of truth I needed to hear. I didn’t realize I was worshipping the idol of beauty. Freedom comes when Jesus becomes our Greater Affection.

[Sashi Grayndler · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fantastically honest and vulnerable look at a sensitive topic. Creekmore digs down and reveals the spiritual root of our body image issues and some great solutions ( which actually focus on identity, value and purpose, as God sees us, not in appearance. Creekmore is refreshingly honest about her own struggles and presents a biblically solid option for fighting this age old battle. A great read for every Christian woman, especially those with daughters, nieces, granddaughters.

[Erin Kerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of this book in order to offer my unbiased review.
That said, I am skeptical when it comes to topics like body image and self esteem. Many times, in Christian circles you hear cliche answers that do nothing to really get to the root of the issue. In this book, you get none of the cheesiness. Heather's perspective is fresh and personal, and I definitely got a different look at the topic that has plagued me for almost 30 years. I highly recommend to ALL women, whether you think you struggle with body image or not.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book on body image issues came to me at the right time. The author has a very approachable tone, and she covers a lot of ground. I wished in many places she had delved further into Scriptures she quoted, and some chapters seem more fleshed out than others, but overall I really benefited from this book and recommend it to those who struggle with body image.

[Leah · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was a book chosen for a group bible study. I didn’t enjoy her style of writing and it wasn’t a topic I was necessarily interested in. However there were good bits of information throughout and some
Thought provoking passages.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is great! If you struggle with body image, then this book will encourage you and help you overcome it. Her podcast is also a great resource.

[Dana Rongione · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Thoughtful and Inspiring Read

This is a must read for any woman battling body image issues or any other situation that leaves her feeling less than or not good enough. I laughed, and at times, I even cried as the truth of God’s Word settled into my heart, reminding me that God loves me just the way I am. The author goes beyond the typical platt answers and cliches and digs deep into the source of our issues and the way to find freedom. What a delightful read!

[Abby · Rating 3 out of 5]

Closer to 3.5. This is good advice, but it felt more geared toward people who are hearing this stuff for the first time. I grew up with a mother who basically taught me this already, so I was hoping for a book that would take me deeper. Still recommend.

[Carma · Rating 1 out of 5]

This was hard for me to read. I'm not religious whatsoever. Hard for me to get into the book with so many written announcements to God and Jesus. DNF. Wish it was advertised more accurately to be portrayed more religious. I respect that others might find value or purpose in this book, but it just wasn't for me.

[Karla · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, I don’t really struggle with body image issues. (And that’s actually not on account of my smoking hotness, heh heh). I just have different issues. So why pick up this particular book? Well, the author is a friend, and I thought I’d do what friends do--read it, and write a review. But, truly, she blessed ME by sharing her story about the freedom she has found through the gospel of Jesus. The book had much broader applications to my life than I expected it to have, honestly. So much of her message had me nodding my head in agreement. There are so many confusing cultural messages about our bodies and our worth. (“Which is it? Do I convince myself that I’m not, or do I convince myself that being hot doesn’t matter?”) Rather than try to strike the right balance between high/low self esteem, she proposes focusing instead on esteeming who God is, and striving for an accurate evaluation of ourselves. Whatever our particular struggle is, we all too often look for freedom in the wrong places. What we wrestle with the most are not external factors, but battles of the heart. When beauty becomes a treasure we chase, Heather calls it sin, and argues me must confront it if we want to be free. She lays out a plan to help, which might just work, with Jesus at the center of it. Jesus isn’t a “resource” that will give us what we desire for our own self-serving purposes. Instead, Jesus is our source, or hope and our savior. This author speaks the truth in love—(something she does consistently as a friend!) She writes with humor, grace and honesty. You won’t be sorry for the time you spend reading Compared to Who.

[Becca · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Food has to transform its place in our lives from friend and comforter to nourisher. We have to feed our body for energy, out of hunger, versus using food to fuel our emotions or soothe us.”

This book definitely has some good nuggets to glean. I appreciated Heather’s authenticity that she shares with lots of good humor. She focuses on the heart of the matter rather than on practical tips, but as someone who works in the fitness industry she also keeps it real. I was a little put off by the “5 step” approach, but that’s more of a personal preference.

Would recommend for anyone wanting change in their lives in the area of body image. But I would also add that the intended audience for this book is explicitly Christian. There are a lot of references to Scripture (which I appreciated), but also a good bit of reference to Christian culture which may be hard to relate to if you didn’t grow up in that. This book would work really well as an addition to personal Bible study and/or in a group setting.

[Ifeoma Samuel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some books jump right in your face and call you to read them! Heather's Book is one of those. As someone who counsels girls and women, I identify with the Beauty and Body Image struggles. In fact like many women we have at sometime in our lives passed through the corridors of Body image.

This simple-hearted passionate woman takes you by the hand, walks you through her own story, shares her personal challenges, then shows you how she got out the bandwagon! You will find yourself completely immersed in her stories of hope.

Who is this book for? It is for every woman, girl, teen who has been there and is still caught up in image lies and Body Image struggles.

Heather is a transparent and sincere writer. A unique style of story telling and weaving inspiration into her words. I find this book useful for every momma who needs to tell her little girls some gurly truths.

Thanks Heather for shedding light on a sensitive topic.
God Bless

[Mindy Pickens · Rating 5 out of 5]

This last weekend, I went to a huge water park with my kids and extended family. I have struggled with body image since I was a pre-teen, and I'm telling you, even in a size sixteen, with bodily evidence of two c-sections, an endocrine disorder, and all my 37 years, I was more free and happy in the park, walking and walking wet in a swimsuit, than I was 50 lbs ago. I lost a bunch of weight several years ago and discovered that even though I technically looked better, I didn't really feel less negative or consumed with body image negativity. Also, I started talking to other women about this and I found the statistics true, almost ALL women, regardless of body size, struggle with body image. I'd look at these beautiful friends who were pretty much my goal weight, hating their bodies just as much as I did, and sometimes even more. Why? How can that be? Well, Compared to Who answers this question, and in a way I honestly and truly didn't expect. I knew Jesus loved me and I was created by God. That didn't really help me not want to cry in a dressing room. That's information is good, but it's like throwing me one neon arm floaty when I'm overboard and sinking. It's not particularly helpful. Creekmore explains why those sentiments don't really help me, and with grace, points in a different direction entirely. A new body won't save you. The next man hitting on you won't save you. The thrill of a new diet won't save you. We know that's true already because those little bumps in esteem never last very long. There is a real and lasting solution though, one that can get even me to have real fun in front of people in a water park. I was able to smile and look the park people and my family in the eye and truly, truly not worry so much about my body not being good enough. I now have a way to both work on my health, and also not constantly feel awful because I am not as beautiful as I could be. I'm not so ashamed anymore. Buy it. Read it. Get another one for a friend. You will be so glad you did.

I did receive an advanced copy of this book in exchange for this review, but my review is honest and my recommendation couldn't be higher. I just came back and bought an additional copy to give to my women's ministry leadership so they can consider it for the mentorship reading list. I've read a lot of books trying to fix my body and how I felt about it, nothing has helped like this.

[Shannan Vester · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing. What can I say? Heather hit my heart right to the core. As someone who struggled for many of my younger years with eating disorders, body image issues have always been that big black cloud that seemed to follow me all of my life. Though I healed long ago from my eating disorders, inwardly, those voices that drove my unhealthy behaviors never left.

Heather's real, honest, and often hilarious book reframes this difficult issue through God's eyes. She guides the reader with how to find strength through spirituality to heal from body image issues. Her book will cause you to question everything you ever thought about not living up to the media's standard of beauty while putting that nagging voice inside your head in its place.

From Heather's book "The gospel speaks directly to our hearts and calls us valued, no matter what shape our bodies are in. His truth speaks to our souls and says we are loved beyond (what our hips) measure. The gospel confronts our messy lives and says, "I love you messy. Now, let me help remove the rest of that stain."

As a mother of four and a trained counselor, this book is perfect for any female who seeks to free herself from this seemingly endless battle. Even if you are thinking that this book may not apply to you because you do not have issues with body image, reading this can give you some insight to a problem that so many other women face.

*I received a free advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Jennifer DeFrates · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't sure I wanted to read this book. I'm so tired of hearing all the same stuff that doesn't work, but Heather was SO real. She wrote the thoughts I was thinking. I felt like someone had read my mind. So much of her story related to mine!

I can't remember a time I didn't struggle with body image. As soon as the bullying started in school, my self-esteem and sense of worth vanished even though I was no different than I'd been the day before. And it's been a constant struggle in the 40 years since. I'm ashamed of the way I've let body image affect my life. I've cancelled plans or been too embarrassed to go places. I've felt like a failure as a person because of my weight and appearance. I've cried so many tears wishing I could just be normal. The joke was on me! I'm normal - like the 91% of women who also struggle with body image.

I've been on a journey to let go of my body image struggles for the last couple of years, but Heather Creekmore's book has freed me in a way I didn't expect. I really wasn't sure I wanted to read another book about weight loss or loving myself the way I am. I've heard all the platitudes I've tried all the diets. I wanted something real, something that would last. Compared to Who? gave me both!

I would recommend this book to anyone struggling with body image, even though it mostly pertains to women. I did receive a free copy from the author, but the opinions are my own! I've never been so glad I read a book. If you take what she says to heart, you will change. And freedom never felt so good.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book very refreshing. Within Christian "circles," women are often either told that they just need to learn to love themselves or that all women struggle with body image so we can all commiserate and self loathe together. While I felt it took the author a few chapter to get to her main points, the pay off was worth it. A rare voice saying that the solution to body images issues is to quit the comparisons, stop exposing yourself to body shaming media, and focus your life on walking with Christ. I thought the book was badly gospel centered and admonishes us that God's main concern isn't our dress size. She even has the courage to call out body obsession (both for the thin and the not so thin) as an idol, including obsessive working out. While maintaining a healthy perspective that God does care about what we eat, but not for the reasons we dwell on. One of my favorite chapters came towards the end, when Creekmore discusses the role of church and community within this issue. It is so rare to find a book that encourages Christians to take the risk and do the hard work it takes to develop authentic relationships in Christian community, but she is able to articulate the importance of this for all of us, no matter what our struggles are. This book has changed how I will approach the issue with other women and made me mindful of how words are impactful.

[Caitlin (CMAReads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Heather Creekmore for the free review copy. All opinions are my own.

This book is so beneficial for those that struggle with body image issues and are Christians. So many times, it's easy to say were following Christ and then choose to not accept ourselves as who we are in Him. I really enjoyed how Creekmore made this book about Christ, not about us because that is what Christianity is all about.

Some of the advice in this book is directly focused on comparison when it comes to body image issues. Other times, the ideas are more broad and can apply to comparison in general. Body image comparison can happen so easily without us realizing it, and this book helps us to realize and catch us in that sin trap. I enjoyed how at the end of every chapter, there is a place to reflect, and it may make you think about where this comparison is affecting you, even if you don't think it is. I also loved the memory verses and found them to be so important.

[Nicolle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was recommended this book by a friend, and read it even though I never really saw myself as having "body image" issues. Having been a ballerina for most of my youth into college, and now maintaining a healthy weight, I felt sure this was one struggle I did not have. But what I learned from this book was that body image is just a symptom of the real illness of placing my sufficiency in the wrong place - in my looks instead of my Lord. And that was a gut check that I needed! I found a lot of truth in this book - the kind of truth you get from a real friend or a mom that tells it to you straight because they love you and they know you need to hear it. I even took screenshots of several pages to have them handy when I meet with other women and this topic inevitably comes up! Definitely worth reading on your own, with a trusted friend, or group of friends. You won't regret it!!

[Amber Clemens · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel like Heather peaked into my past, watched a perfectionistic girl strive and struggle, and then proceeded to write this book as a result. I truly could not stop reading this book! Heather writing is honest, funny, relatable and wise on topics many people struggle with: body image and comparison. Compared to Who? helps readers unpack the root reasons and causes for body image issues and comparison. Heather shares her own journey and struggle with body image in an extremely honest, vulnerable, authentic, relatable and (at times) humorous way. This book is great for anyone who has ever struggled with body image, self-esteem, disordered eating. Rather than just focusing on truth in God’s word, Heather will help you find freedom through grace and the gospel.

[Erin Dostalek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where was this book years ago (no, I will not tell you how many)?! Women in America are constantly bombarded with the perfect - whatever, you fill in the blank. Trying to keep up is exhausting. No matter where you are in the race, there is always someone ahead of you. From our homes to our health, we compare how our life stacks up, not only to the people next door, but also the people on Instagram. In her book, Heather shares the secret to winning the race - step off the track. When we focus on the race that God has uniquely designed for each one of us, we no longer need to compare ourselves to anybody else. And when stop worrying about how we compare to anyone else, we can start worshipping our Creator as we fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.

[mia van de loo · Rating 3 out of 5]

ideally i’d give this a 3.5. there was some really great truth in here. it compelled me to really work on my body image because it’s a systemic issue in our culture. i don’t want to fuel that at all. however i wasn’t exactly the target audience; creekmore writes mainly to moms born around the seventies, so there was a lot i couldn’t relate to. still, some good messages. also i wish the chapter on things that could get in the way of positive body image was like way more chapters because that was the most helpful part to me

[Lawanda D Goddard · Rating 5 out of 5]

The help I’ve needed for years

This book was written as if Heather had been living in my house and reading my mind. I’ve never gained so much knowledge and understanding about what was happening inside my head. I’ve also never read so many helpful and practical solutions and felt so encouraged. For the first time I really believe that there is help for me and that I’m not alone. I’m inspired like never before to share my own story. Thank you Heather!!!

[Jennifer Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book I didn’t know I needed

Wow, just wow. A friend recommended this book — not even knowing about my body image struggles — and I read it on a whim because the ebook was free. It has changed my life. Thank you, Jesus. Every woman needs this book. I’m buying the paperback and keeping it on my nightstand.

[Erin L Todd · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book simultaneously convicts you and empowers you. It cuts to the root issue of idolatry – a hard truth, but a necessary one. Heather Creekmore explains it like no other and she speaks truth and grace over our body image struggles. A must-read for Christian women who wrestle with self worth and appearance.

[Katherine Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. We all seem to look at ourselves with much more criticism than others do. Looking in the mirror you may not agree that what you see is perfect 'like the tabloids' but you are perfect in God's eyes. He made you, He loves you, and that should be all we need to love ourselves. Excellent guidance on getting past what we 'think' we should be.

[Nikita Callaghan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic reminder is that we need to focus on Jesus nothing more.

Well humored book. Practical and great spirtual reminders about focusing on Jesus. Reminding us to take guard of our hearts. To evaluate ourselves from a biblical perspective not a worldly. Bless the author. Very well written. Very relatable.

[Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Path Forward

A great read and so simple really. Jesus is the antidote for all of life's ailments. Body image is no different. It made me sick for so long but Jesus is the cure. I'm excited to start on a new path. Highly recommended to get off the hamster wheel of believing the lie that how our body looks equals our worth.