The Pressure Of "Looking Good" As A Woman | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Health and Wellness

The Pressure Of "Looking Good" As A Woman

Embracing all forms of beauty. Most importantly your own.

149
The Pressure Of "Looking Good" As A Woman
Dove Real Beauty Campaign

It is about time we talked about the most dreaded conversation topic among women across the globe — body image. Yes, I know it is a constant discussion in various media outlets, but has it really become a relevant topic across media platforms everywhere? This may come off as feminist, and if so, I am honored, but the body image conversation seems to be skewed a bit differently than the same conversation among men.

I turn to the goddess herself, Tina Fey, for her thoughts.

We live in a time where nearly anything is possible in altering yourself as long as you have the money to do so. That is not the only reason the ideal female image has erupted into something nearly impossible to possess. This desire to fulfill an impeccably perfect body can be different among everyone. The point is that it seems to be expected by everyone.

See here as Jon Stewart, host of "The Daily Show," mocks the nationally viewed news media as they announced the sensitively profound discovery of Bruce Jenner transitioning to Caitlyn Jenner. Be sure to watch it until the very end.

And a little bit of insight from the newly re-identified, Caitlyn Jenner.


I think it would be best if we all found our own “new normal” too.

The time has come that we focus on making women feel beautiful again, and that begins with conversation. Personally as a woman, especially one in a sorority, it is nearly impossible not to compare yourself to those around you. Not to mention the freshman 15 being very real, and don’t forget about the next three years that may be gain years too. The 21 Run has come and gone, and you have had a few brews in the process. Now this feeling sets in.

It could take weeks, semesters or even after graduation, but it will settle in. My close friends and family know that I have my own insecurities, but talking about them publicly is a whole other ball game. How am I supposed to expect others to speak up if I can’t myself? I have finally come to a conclusion as to why I am constantly worried about weight gain and body image, and it is not just because of the media I see each day. I have realized that what is most important to me is getting back to being healthy not just “looking good.” I just have to remember that progress is progress and baby steps are okay.

Here are a few tips and tricks that I have started using in my daily life.

Eat for your body.
Be aware of what foods improve your health in all areas. Food that gives you good energy boosts your immune system and doesn’t leave you feeling guilty.

Get active, even if it is just 30 minutes a day to start.
Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women, so make sure you keep your heart strong by staying active. My thing is to post workout circuits around places I see each day as a little reminder to do one or two when I have some free time. I turn to Cosmopolitan’s Hot & Healthy fitness features and Pinterest for my inspiration.

Drink water like it’s your job.
Water is crucial. Drink it all day, every day — in between coffee, of course. Detox waters count! And they add a yummy twist.

Do it for you, and don’t aim to look like someone else.
I am so guilty of wanting to have the perfect bodies of other people, but I’ve realized that I have to be realistic. Each one of us is different. We’ve known that forever, so keep it in mind when working to improve yourself. This is about you not anyone else.

I am a firm believer that everybody is beautiful. There should be no skinny-shaming and no fat-shaming. We should just be focusing on what is best for us all personally. Embracing all forms of beauty is the key to changing the way women are pressured to look. One campaign that does this phenomenally is the Dove Campaign for Real Beauty. Check out this video, “You’re More Beautiful than You Think” to see what I mean.


I am no personal trainer. I am not the healthiest nut in Whole Foods, but I am working to improve myself and my health. Find what is important to you and embrace it or improve it just make sure you love it.


Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Taylor Swift in orange dress playing a moss-covered piano on stage with bright lights.

A three-and-a-half-hour runtime. Nine Eras. Eleven outfit changes. Three surprise songs. Zero breaks. One unforgettable evening. In the past century, no other performer has put on an electric performance quite like Taylor Swift, surpassing her fans ‘wildest dreams’. It is the reason supporters keep coming back to her shows each year. Days later, I’m still in awe of the spectacle ‘Miss Americana’ puts on every few days in a new city. And, like one of Taylor’s exes, has me smiling as I reminisce about the memories of the night we spent together.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

23759
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

9927
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

7187
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments