Break Free from Unrealistic Beauty Standards: 9 Amazing Tips for a Positive Body Image

Over 78% of young girls suffer from anxiety because of unrealistic beauty standards.

A 2010 study revealed that 9 out of 10 teenage girls felt pressurized to look a certain way. A skinny body, toned legs, fair skin, big butts, and a flat stomach are some of the features that make modern beauty statements.

Social media, beauty magazines, and the fashion industry have also contributed largely to these unrealistic beauty standards. The constant exposure to the standards set by beauty influencers and the modeling industry has created a wave of low self-esteem, negative self-image, low confidence, anxiety, and several other mental illnesses.

The ever-changing landscape of beauty standards

Beauty standards have always been a very important part of women’s history, the way they looked and felt. And surprisingly, for every era, the definition of perfect beauty kept changing. In the 1930s, it was an obsession with the hourglass figure. In the 1980s, it was long hair and a curvy body. The 1990s were dominated by the standards of pale skin and skinny figures. And the current age of social media is obsessed with flat-toned stomachs, bigger hips, fuller lips, toned legs, colored hair and so much more.

Thus, there has always been this constant pressure on women to look a certain way to fit into the ‘so-called’ beauty bracket. This not only causes unnecessary stress but also affects their self-esteem, confidence, self-image, and mental health. Some women have gone to an unhealthy extent to meet these standards, be it cosmetic surgery or unhealthy eating. These unrealistic beauty standards have resulted in severe health issues.

The effect of social media on beauty

Women have always lived under the pressure to look a certain way. But with social media, this pressure has exploded. With many photo-sharing sites like Instagram or Snapchat portraying unrealistic, edited, filtered images, women, especially young girls experience higher levels of anxiety when it comes to their body image. Several studies have shown that women who spend more time on social media are at a higher risk of depression, anxiety, and fear of non-acceptability.

Social media and body image

Social media has created a platform for body comparisons that has negatively impacted many who were already suffering from body image issues. The unrealistic tips on weight loss or fair skin have also resulted in serious health issues. There have been many cases of anorexia, skin allergies, eating disorders, mood disorders, heart complications, and even death. Apart from these physical health complications, the effect of social media on mental health issues is also significant. The cases of depression, anxiety, and low self-image have seen a huge spike in this social media era. 

10 Tips to overcome these unrealistic beauty standards

The first step to overcoming the anxiety and fear associated with beauty is ‘to accept’. Accept your body, accept your flaws, and accept who you are. Beauty does not lie in being perfect or fitting into certain standards, but in happiness and contentment. Here are 10 tips that can help you overcome the unrealistic beauty standards set by society.

Tips to overcome unrealistic beauty standards

1. Accept yourself 

Beauty lies in rarity and each one of us is a rare piece. There is no one like us. The day you accept this fact, you will no longer feel the urge to run after trends and standards. Many young girls, women, and men feel dissatisfied with their looks and they try to follow or imitate the appearance of their ideal, a model or an influencer. This creates undue pressure and discontentment. Acceptance is the key to being happy!

2. Go on a Social Media Detox

Being on social media is proven to be detrimental to mental health. And spending too much time on social media causes lethargy, mood disorders, sleep disorders, and unhealthy eating habits. Thus, going for a social media detox is the perfect way to break free of this vicious cycle. It not only keeps you away from negativity and self-doubt but also gives you ample time to work on yourself.

3. Indulge in Positive Messages

While there is a downside to social media, there is also a bright side to it. Many sites, influencers, and even celebrities are promoting and advocating body positivity. There are a number of blogs, movies, and documentaries that empowers body positivity and helps women and men see themselves as worthy. Seek out those sources, focus on the good things, and build your own confidence.

4. Read self-help books

Self-help books can really help in building self-esteem and confidence. These books help you understand the benefits of building self-esteem and give you constructive ways to do that. They teach you the benefits of positive self-talk and teach you how to ways to handle the self-critic within you. This not only helps you feel good about yourself but also helps in building a strong personality.

5. Try positive affirmations

A negative self-image can impact your mental and physical health. Positive affirmations can help you in breaking free of the boundaries of beauty standards. Find at least five things about your body that makes you feel grateful and write them in a diary. You can also write about the things that you want to work on. Like exercising for weight loss, or natural skincare for better skin health. This will help you feel more content in your own body.

6. Practice Non-Judgment

Being judgemental about someone else’s beauty or appearance also puts on pressure on yourself to look a certain way. Shatter the glass barrier by looking beyond people’s appearance. See the beauty in all shapes and sizes and this practice will help you accept yourself in a better wholesome.

7. Find what you are good at

Focus on the good and good shall happen. This is the law of attraction. You may not look flawless but you can be flawless in your morals, character, conduct, and work. And there is a different kind of satisfaction when you excel in these facets of life. Anyone can hide behind filters and make-up, but to be truly beautiful from the inside is a rare thing.

8. Seek professional help

Sometimes, the feeling of not fitting in can result in depression and anxiety, especially among teen girls. The changed body is also one of the major reasons for postpartum depression. If you are suffering from mental health issues due to body image, then it’s best to seek out professional help.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I stop comparing myself to others and embrace my unique beauty?

Comparison can be a real confidence killer, but remember: “Comparison is the thief of joy!” Instead, focus on celebrating your own unique qualities and strengths. Remember that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors.

What are some practical steps I can take to improve my body image?

Start by surrounding yourself with positive influences. Follow body-positive social media accounts, practice self-care activities that make you feel good, and engage in activities that promote self-acceptance, such as journaling or practicing mindfulness.

How can I deal with negative comments or criticism about my appearance?

Negative comments can sting, but it’s important to remember that they often come from people who are struggling with their own insecurities. Brush off the negativity and surround yourself with a supportive network of friends and loved ones who appreciate you for who you are.

What role does self-talk play in cultivating a positive body image?

Self-talk can make or break your self-esteem. Instead of engaging in negative self-talk, practice positive affirmations and remind yourself of your unique qualities and strengths. Treat yourself with kindness and compassion.

Can changing my wardrobe positively impact my body image?

Absolutely! Wearing clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident can significantly boost your body image. Embrace your personal style and choose outfits that accentuate your favorite features.

How can I overcome societal pressure to conform to beauty standards?

It’s important to remember that beauty standards are ever-changing and often unrealistic. Challenge societal norms by surrounding yourself with diverse representations of beauty and focusing on self-acceptance rather than fitting into someone else’s mold.

Are there any activities or hobbies that can help improve body image?

Engaging in activities that make you feel good about yourself can do wonders for your body image. Whether it’s dancing, painting, yoga, or any other activity that brings you joy, find something that allows you to appreciate your body’s capabilities and strengths.

Can social media have a positive impact on body image?

While social media can sometimes contribute to negative body image, it can also be a powerful tool for self-expression and finding body-positive communities. Follow accounts that promote self-love, diversity, and body acceptance to create a positive online environment.

How can I support others in their journey toward a positive body image?

Supporting others is crucial in creating a more inclusive and body-positive world. Offer kind words and compliments, challenge negative body talk, and encourage open conversations about self-acceptance. Together, we can build a community that celebrates and embraces diversity.

Your Takeaway

The beauty standards of society are not only absurd but also toxic. They are unattainable, overly sexualized, and unhealthy. The beauty image portrayed by the media and fashion industry is not even real. The flaws are covered with professional makeup, lighting, editing, and filters. Thus, spending your time, energy, and money to look a certain way makes no sense. It is rather the healthy skin, healthy hair, and a healthy body that a person should aim for, not the toned abs or the waxed toned legs.

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