I think it’s safe to say that every woman has looked in the mirror and heard the little voice in their head saying, “You’re not good enough” or “You’re not pretty enough”.
In a society that is image-focused, there is an underlying message that if you buy more makeup, ditch the skinny jeans, buy the crop top (or not), and wear less makeup, you will be perceived as “beautiful”.
When we are constantly bombarded with messages of what to do and what not to do with our appearance, it begs the question: “How much do I have to change in order to be perceived as beautiful by society?”
Any given fashion magazine will have a model displayed on the front page with smooth skin, perfect hair, and elegant clothes – photoshopped to perfection. When it’s all you see and all that is advertised, it’s easy to feel like you’re “not enough” even though you know it’s not a realistic picture.
There’s the thought of “Why don’t I look like that?” or “Will I only be seen as pretty if my body is the same as theirs?”. I think the comparison game is a normal, human experience, but it obviously has negative consequences when it’s no longer in moderation.
The entertainment industry has had a huge influence on what is seen as the “ideal” body weight and shape. For those who don’t fall into this “ideal” category (which is the majority), the outcome results in low self-esteem, a tendency toward poor eating habits, and sometimes, extreme measures to conform to the “ideal” standard portrayed in mainstream media.
Another factor that contributes to not feeling beautiful or pretty enough is the ever-growing presence of cyberbullying from teenagers and adults alike.
“There are some people who engage in cyberbullying online because of anonymity and the fact that there’s no retaliation,” said Amanda Giordana, a principal investigator in a study at the University of Georgia.
This is especially prevalent for students in middle and high school who are still in the midst of cognitive development. Negative comments and nicknames have a lasting effect on those who are bullied for their appearance, and these feelings of inadequacy can continue into adulthood.
At the end of the day, you are your own person. It’s your body, your clothes, your makeup (or none), and your hair. We all deserve to feel beautiful, and nobody’s opinion is more important than your own.
