Growing up is hard in many ways for us girls.
Our bodies change, our moods swing and we often lose sight of what is actually important. What is considered beautiful grows and evolves as we do, so why are the majority of us having a hard time recognizing ourselves as beautiful?
We are constantly reaching to obtain an image that is not and will not be obtainable.
Magazines that now exhibit the “Most Beautiful Woman Alive” are ultimately inhibiting self-love by defining beauty as one person. If we all try to mimic one person’s appearance, then how would we keep individuality alive? What’s more important here: achieving society's view of beauty or holding on to our individuality?
In my opinion, individuality wins.
Or at least it should win. I have heard the phrase “Everyone is beautiful” many times in my life and I am hoping that women begin to actually believe it. If we stop defining beauty as society wants us to, then why can’t everyone be beautiful?
Being beautiful should be more than what size dress you wear and how well you can curl your hair. Beauty is the little things that are unique to you, not what everyone collectively is looking for. If everyone met society's standard of beauty, then society would find a new standard, starting the cycle over again.
When we look back on our time as young adults, what are we really going to remember?
I hope that our accomplishments, our adventures, and our relationships are more memorable than our physical appearances. It isn’t easy living in a world where we are constantly told what to look like. It’s even harder living in a world where appearances are held higher than personalities. With current icons, like Ashley Graham, who are redefining body image, we have ample opportunities and support to break down stereotypes.
Love yourself, accept yourself and be someone who offers more than a pretty face. Trust me, you will be more memorable. Times may be changing and we may be growing constantly, but beauty is something that can be timeless, as long as we make it about more than physical appearance.
Make your mind, your actions and your heart beautiful. It is often said that beauty fades and it is then when it really matters who you are. If we redefine beauty as something that is more than skin deep, maybe it will be something that never fades.