Have you ever spent a night, tossing and turning in your bed, wondering if you could ever become as beautiful as the models you see on TV and magazines? Have you ever been the subject of criticism from your peers about body image?
If so, you’re not alone.
Millions of people all over the world are everyday being told that their bodies are not ideal. A whopping 71% of women are unhappy with their bodies and the majority of men feel insecure about their muscularity.
These insecurities in some cases lead to extreme measures of weight loss and diet. The whole idea of a “perfect body” sometimes make people think that they can never reach their true, best selves because of the uncertainties that hold them back.
Staying Away from the Negatives
Social media is a great platform to share experiences, ideas, and thoughts. However, it has also become a toxic place by enforcing the idea that men and women are supposed to be a certain body type to be considered perfect.
But the good news is, social media is just one aspect of the entire world. You shouldn’t let anybody keep you from being the best you ever—especially not social media’s idea of perfection.
While there is nothing wrong with wanting to be like the models we see on modern media, there is also nothing wrong with being okay with yourself. The way in which body types have changed radically over the years proves that what is fashionable at the moment may be completely different in ten or twenty years time anyway.
Facebook, Instagram, or any other social media platform you may opt to use—these are great platforms to express ourselves. But the content you see on your timeline does not always represent everyone's thoughts. The secret is to filtering those out and only minding those who care for your well-being.
No matter the body type, we are made of different qualities that make us unique, so that is what we should focus on instead.
A Body and Beauty “Aha”
Oprah Winfrey has presented an interesting and beautiful paradox about one’s body image.
The media mogul and philanthropist whose brand is encapsulated in the simple yet compelling message of “living your best life” was vocal about her own weight loss issues. But it was her enlightening and transcendent turn to realizing that she is NOT her body that she was able to successfully deal with this issue.
She says: “I've given up scale-watching—letting a number determine how I see myself and whether I'm worthy of a good day.”
So whether you’re a pretty girl waiting for a prince in a white horse who will sweep you off your feet, or a queen who dreams to be the fairest of them all, to truly see the fairest version of you, you have to see past the mirror.
About Sally Perkins
Sally Perkins is a professional freelance writer with many years experience across many different areas. She made the move to freelancing from a stressful corporate job and loves the work-life balance it offers her. When not at work, Sally enjoys reading, hiking, spending time with her family and travelling as much as possible.