As a woman, to be strong and confident isn’t as easy as people make it seem – especially with all the models and actresses whose images are always around.
While it is certainly not their fault, it certainly may play a big role in the problems women have in today’s society. Everyone wants to be perfect. We want that killer body, the booty to die for, and the boobs that stay high under your chin without a bra! Not to mention the constant ‘on trend’ fashion, and flawless hair and makeup.
We want a slimmer waist, whiter teeth, even larger houses and fancier cars. Not to mention the constant ‘on trend’ clothes hanging in our closets, and flawless hair and makeup.
It’s’ my thought that many of us have much of what we are searching for (in vain) and more importantly, what is best for us.
Curves
Whatever you do – embrace your natural curves. That’s what it’s all about nowadays, and you shouldn’t feel ashamed if you’ve got them! If you aren’t curvy, there is no reason for concern.
We are so busy doing extra squats in the gym or slathering on the latest butt cream that boasts the latest in beauty breakthroughs. When we take a look at the amazing, strong women around us what do we see?
Women that have endured a growth spurt, child birth, and many years of joy, productivity, travel, and more. Their bodies are beautiful and may or may not be indicative to our own natural shape (should you be looking to your mother or older sibling of the same gender.)
If you want the body you see in magazines it’s important to realize much of the time they don’t really exist.
That highlight catching her abs subtly, and that curve of the hip – that’s all down to makeup, clever lighting, or editing afterward. So if you’re comparing yourself to those you feel are visually “perfect” please understand all that goes into them appearing as they do.
Fashion
Oh to be fashionable… Everyone wants to be, but what does it actually mean? To be fashionable sits on the same expression as being ‘normal’.
It all lies down to an opinion really. Sure, some stringent fashionistas will disagree, but then again, does what you wear truly define your character, ability to do your job, or even your ability to love someone? Not at all.
Fashion is whatever you make it, and although there’s plenty of different styles out there, you don’t need to attach yourself to one of their labels. If you like to mix match and accessorize – do it until your heart’s content!
If you like the color black, and love dramatics – wear a damn cape if you wish! No one has the right to tell you what you can and can’t wear. If you feel comfortable in something – keep on wearing it.
Now, following a trend is a whole other story. If you are inspired by the celebs and who’s wearing what – stock up on vogue, tune into the runways, and follow your inspirations on social media. That will give you a great insight into what’s hot and what’s not.
Hair
Hair holds so much power – more than you’ll ever know. It’s the thing that protects our feelings. It’s the thing we let down when we’re feeling playful. And it’s the thing we play with when we’re talking to someone we are attracted to. Whether it’s short or long, black or red, hair is a way of showing our personalities without having to open up and be vulnerable. If you’re feeling a little wild and want everyone to know; rock them tight curls and make a statement. If you’re feeling sly and sophisticated; go for a straight and sleek look, while blinding everyone with the shine. And if you’re feeling in one of them ‘screw everyone and everything’ kinda moods – dye it blue!
Whether it’s short or long, black or red, hair is a way of showing our personalities without having to open up and be vulnerable. If you’re feeling a little wild and want everyone to know; rock a wilder mane of curls and make a statement. If you’re feeling sly and sophisticated; go for a straight and sleek look, while blinding everyone with the shine. And if you’re feeling in one of them ‘screw everyone and everything’ kind of moods – dye it blue!
The most important thing when it comes to hair is making sure you care for it properly. There’s only so much damage you can do until it decides enough is enough – and when that happens, you’ll regret ever touching it because now it’s dry, damaged, and falling out in pieces!
Conditioner is your best friend and avoid heat at all costs. Before heading to the salon for a blowout, I typically wash my hair and put in a strengthening mask so when she’s finished, my hair is in the same, if not better condition it was in before she started.
When using heat, be sure to use the appropriate protective sprays and creams.
Personality
By far the most important, your personality is what makes you you. The way you speak, the way you act, and even the way you laugh is what defines you amongst everyone else.
You should never hide yourself away or behave a certain way because you think it’s what people want to see. Sometimes it can be pretty scary, because who knows what someone is going to think or you.
A lot of these feelings can be from our younger days while in school. People judge one another, girls sometimes more so than boys. It can be hard take the risk to open up, but it our vulnerabilities that make us special, and allow others to open up to us.
Life is far too short to hold back due to fear. You do exactly what you want to do, and if people don’t like you… So what.? Are you going to let that make a negative impact on your life? Or are you going to laugh it off and continue being the awesome person you are?
Even having that attitude alone will put you in people’s good books. That’s what really makes you beautiful. Not your clothes, or your shoes – your personality. So pull out that smile and wear it proudly.
