Social media, reality television and pop-culture have created a nearly intangible standard of attractiveness for both women and men, but particularly for the ladies. Our generation puts an unhealthy amount of emphasis on physicality when measuring someone's desirability. There are far too many people in the media who are heavily revered simply for being attractive while ignoring the undoubted damage they are doing as role models for young kids and teenagers.

I get on Instagram, click the explore tab and I am quickly reminded of every single insecurity I have ever had throughout my entire existence. These women have flawless skin, perfectly arched eyebrows, a booty to die for and a dental plan that is otherworldly. Why wouldn't that make me look in the mirror with a slouch and a sigh? For a long time, I found myself pounding my face with makeup, buying expensive clothes all for an Instagram picture. I justified it by telling myself that it was all for my blog. I mean, social media presence is important...right?

One day during my routine Instagram scroll accompanied by a hot cup of self-pity, I saw a quote in between a post of a contoured face and a butt you could sit a cup on that said, "Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself." It was at that moment that I realized how big of a square I was for allowing social media culture to influence my self image, and ultimately, my self worth. There is nothing wrong with gathering fitness, makeup and fashion inspiration, but I decided to no longer attempt to mold myself into something that is probably plastic anyway. I posted a picture of myself with no makeup that very day.

My boyfriend is 6'4" with broad shoulders and a TKO smile. I would be lying with my pants, shirt and shoes totally on fire if I said that did not contribute to his overall appeal, but when I think of his mind and spirit that evokes thought, emotion and contemplation, to me, that is the true attraction. His humor, intellect and vision is what keeps me around, not his shoulders or his teeth.

I completely understand that sometimes physical attraction to someone is the "initial" attraction, but it is not long lasting. Eventually your skin will not glow as it once did, your hair will fall from your scalp and your body will not be swimsuit worthy, but your mind and spirit will remain with you always.