Here's a funny thought: a perfect world doesn't exist.
Strange to say, but when you think about it, this is completely true. The only perfect things in this world are those created by nature, which we seem to want to change because we see them as imperfect.
We live in a photoshopped world. Every magazine we look at and drool over the beautiful photographs: I can guarantee, they have been retouched. Even the biggest supermodels in the world who are seen as "perfect" are photoshopped to look that way. Let this marinate for a second: Merriam-Webster defines perfect as "corresponding to an ideal standard or abstract concept". Ideal. Abstract. Meaning not real. So how then can we look in the mirror and expect perfection? We only get one body to live this life with, it's crucial that we love it.
Sometimes it's important to look in the mirror and decide to make a change. If you personally feel that being more physically active or eating better are good decisions, good for you. Be the best version of you. But when it comes down to nitpicking your body every time you step in the sightline of a mirror, you need to take a step back. Like I said, even the most sought out models in the world are photoshopped. And besides, it's their job to be as skinny as possible. So when they look in the mirror, odds are they don't 100 percent love what they see either, but they have a photographer to take care of that for them. It's not your job to look like a model. It is your job, however, to create a body image that you're proud of. Perfection doesn't exist. Everyone has flaws. In fact, your flaws are what make you unique. It's not the flaws that matter, it's how you look at them that matters.
We all struggle with wanting to look like a model, especially during the summer when we frequent the beach and have to put on the dreaded bathing suit. However, remember that your body is yours. The only person you need to impress in that bikini is you. Self confidence makes all the difference. Your body can physically look the exact same, but if you wear that bikini with pride, you'll get a much better feeling than if you are ashamed of the way you look.
I am not in any way discouraging frequenting the gym. I'm at the gym every day working hard to get my ideal "summer body." Do I think it's going to happen anytime soon: no. Does that stop me from working my hardest to be confident in my body: no. I don't work out for anyone else but me. At the end of the day, you are your own worst critic. Forget the haters and take care of yourself. Do everything you have to in order to be confident in that bikini or little black dress, because at the end of the day, confidence is the biggest trophy anyone can have.
