Semi-recently a sorority sister of mine, Nina Rossiello of Alpha Theta Beta at Hofstra, shared the following video of a Delta Phi Epsilon chapter at SUNY Albany to the song "Pretty Hurts":
Individually, each member talks about a personal struggle such as eating disorders, body image, and the first moment in which they all lost confidence. For many girls we can pinpoint the time in which some troll broke down our adolescent self-esteem, which deep down still affects us today.
Although many people use the adjective “pretty” as an external description, we all have to remember that pretty is something you feel. Here are some of the reasons to praise yourself on being pretty rather than how you look rolling out of bed!
1. Loving Yourself
In my case, the troll that made me self-conscious was a boy I liked in art class in 5th grade. He told me I looked pregnant and in that moment I didn’t feel pretty. If I let him get to me until this day, I wouldn’t be nearly as confident. Self-love despite all others putting you down is the ultimate symbol of strength, which is beautiful. It's pretty! Try looking yourself in the mirror the next time you get ready and tell yourself “I love you." In some cases it can be more powerful than another person expressing that towards you.
2. Confidence
Confidence is all about not needing other people’s validation. So what if your outfit is a little out of the norm or it’s your bum day? Own it. If you are proud in how you look and feel, then that’s the only validation you should need. We all have a difference in opinion so no matter what that one person thinks, put your shoulders back, chest out, and head up, it’s all about you!
3. Surrounding Yourself With Good People
Being pretty can come from the people in your immediate circle. If they convince you to carry out goals, stay on track with work, and support you along the way, they boost your self-esteem to feel pretty. These are the friends that truly have your back and if you need validation at the moment, then you can count on them to comment on your Insta pics regarding your beauty.
4. Having Goals/Achieving Them
Nothing screams "feel good" than knowing you’ve worked so hard on something and watching your plans unfold. In the case of DPhiE at UAlbany there goal was to encourage girls to be confident in themselves. Goal accomplished because I’m writing to spread the message myself. Adding to your list of accomplishment won't make you question twice about your external appearance because your resume... is pretty!
5. Being a Leader
The most beautiful thing you can do for yourself is creating a path for others to grow. Being a leader could be as simple as hanging out with that one freshman you’ve met and teaching them as much as you can! It can also mean making crucial decisions that benefit the majority. All I know is that when you lead, baby girl you're so damn fine doe!
"Pretty hurts (pretty hurts), we shine the light on whatever's worst
We try to fix something but you can't fix what you can't see
It's the soul that needs the surgery" -Beyonce
