Now, I’ve been told I am not fat countless times by friends and family. “You’re not even fat, what are you talking about?” I get what they are saying; there are people who are bigger than me, but there are people who are smaller, as well. I’ve never been a skinny kid, as in, I've always been a little bit bigger than my friends, which can make you feel pretty crappy not looking like everyone else. I’ve struggled with body issues, like a lot of people do, and I think I’m finally coming to terms with my body and embracing myself and all of those things celebrities and the media tell you you should do. So, this is for those of you who may still be struggling because I know I am, and I would have wanted someone to tell me these things. It may be a mix of the cliche “You’re beautiful! Who cares what they say!” and “Yeah, no, trust me no one actually cares,” but they are things I felt I needed to hear, so this is from one “fat girl” to another.
1. No one thinks you look fat in that outfit. You feel great? Good because you look great and anyone who tells you differently does not deserve your time, to be honest.
2. If a boy or girl comments negatively on your weight, do not let them see you upset. I know it feels awful, and it may be hard not to, but do not, I repeat, do not give them the satisfaction of seeing you upset.
3. Similarly, if you have a Tinder, it will be rough at times. When I had it, I literally had someone message me, “10 pounds lighter and we can continue this conversation.” Long story short, I told him to go "F himself" because he did not matter and neither did his comment. So, keep that in mind if someone tells you something rude like that. They’re irrelevant, and you’re fab.
4. Also, if words like fat, thick, big-boned, etc. bother you, let people know. Don’t make yourself uncomfortable just so everyone else is comfortable.
5. Seriously, wear what you want to wear. If it makes you happy and you feel good in it, wear it.
6. Yeah, you don’t look like the girl on the magazine. Who cares? She’s beautiful. You’re beautiful.
7. Although it may be hard, if someone close to you is making you uncomfortable about your weight, say something. Just because they’re your friend or family, doesn’t give them the right to make you feel bad.
8. If you want to lose weight, or alternatively, don’t want to, that’s completely your choice. Don’t do it because someone tells you to or not to. It's your body and your health, so do what you want.
So, for all you ladies and gentlemen who feel as though you are "not skinny enough," you are just enough as you are. Though it may seem tough to believe it at times, you are amazing no matter what size you are. Take it from someone who took a long time to love their body, you look great. Also remember...
