37 Things I'd Rather Be Than "Pretty"

From birth, women are taught to value their looks above all other aspects of their being. When we are little, we are told we're "pretty" while boys are told they're "strong" and "smart." When we are adolescents, we are taught to compete for the attention of men. We are taught our value depends on how desirable men find us. Popular makeover shows, movies, and magazines teach us that our value lies solely in our appearance: how we do our hair, how we wear makeup, what clothes we wear, and how we exercise. Companies feed off of these taught insecurities, pushing products and promising cures for imperfections they created.

It takes a lifetime to unlearn the toxic notion that a woman's value lies in her looks. Fortunately, there are so many things I would rather be than "pretty."

1. Genuine

2. Courageous

3. Generous

4. Kind

5. Brilliant

6. Humble

7. Passionate

8. Spontaneous

9. Intelligent

10. Sophisticated

11. Assertive

12. Witty

13. Compassionate

14. Loving

15. Efficient

16. Capable

17. Grounded

18. Talented

19. Independent

20. Respected

21. Rational

22. Traveled

23. Wise

24. Adventurous

25. Open-minded

26. Trustworthy

27. Confident

28. Ethical

29. Dependable

30. Fair

31. Supportive

32. Curious

33. Creative

34. Patient

35. Strong

36. Inspirational

37. Bold