For decades, it seems like being thin and lean was the greatest standard of beauty. Super models were always tall and thin women, they had the desirable body shape and size. But in recent years, it’s been proven that plus-sized women have been given so many more opportunities to feel beautiful and equal to their smaller counter parts. Many companies like Lane Bryant and JC Penney are trying to break the idea that women of bigger body size aren't desirable or proper. Being plus-sized isn't a crime, and being plus-sized certainly doesn't necessarily mean that you aren't healthy. Plus- sized women still can lift weights, do yoga, run, and be as healthy as anyone else.

It seems like there's this horrible stigma that being bigger than the "average" size is defective or less beautiful. Being bigger doesn't change who you are; you are beautiful no matter how big or small you are. You're still a human with a personality and feelings. As long as you're comfortable with yourself and are healthy you shouldn't feel like you need to diet to lose weight. You should lose weight because it’s what you want, not because people tell you that you would look better if you lost a little. Don't put yourself at risk of developing an eating disorder or having an obsession with watching your weight.

Fat shaming has become such an issue in recent years, especially on social media. People are horrible and disgusting, but you shouldn't let them waver your confidence. Don't ever choose a celebrity or person in your life and say that you want their body. Your expectations will disappoint you. Everyone has a different body shape, metabolism, and, health issues, dietary needs. Conform your eating habits and workout schedule to your needs, whether that means doing exercises to support the weight you're at and add some tone or whether you want to bulk up on muscle or slim down a few pounds. It’s your body and your path to follow with the right plan for yourself.

Body shaming is an issue just as much for men as it is for women. Hollywood and the media have created the narrative that men need to big and strong with muscle, not fat. As if a man is any less of his self-worth because he isn't spending four hours lifting weights at the gym or consuming protein supplements to make gains. On the other hand, if you're too thin as man, you seem weak and incapable of providing for a partner and a family.

Your body size or shape does not define who you are as a person and it never will. Live your life and enjoy the good people in your life. Be who you are and be confident in yourself, no one else can do that for you.