Right now, we’re living in an era of contradictions. One one hand, I’ve never felt more surrounded by body positivity, and inspiring women who celebrate the body they’re in. On the other hand, social media is still a hotbed of judgement, where the toxic idea of ‘the perfect body’ is plastered all over instagram…
As per the latter, body shaming is as rife as ever. Anyone without a perfect butt and a cinched waist is deemed unattractive, and ridiculous body standards pave the way for some pretty nasty online bullying – even in the “lighthearted” form of memes.
Putting you down for the way you look is truly unacceptable, even when masked as ‘concerns for your weight’ or constructive criticism from loved ones. No matter whether you’ve developed a super thick skin, or still get stung by passing comments – body shaming is not okay, and everyone should learn how to respond to it.
Don’t feel like you owe people an explanation
Don’t ever feel like you have to justify your body shape, size or weight to someone. You don’t owe anyone an explanation, and you certainly don’t owe them any promises to change. It’s your life, and it’s your body; how you look is none of anyone’s business but yours. Quite often, someone else’s jab at your body shape can mean they’re suffering from low self-esteem themselves, so (and I know this is easier said than done) try not to let it change the way that you feel about yourself. Nevertheless, anger is still an acceptable response – as is silence, or shrugging, or even laughing. Respond in whichever way you feel comfortable, so long as you’re not stressing that you need to change or explain yourself to make this person happy!
Remember that self-love is the priority
Instead of wondering why they said what they said, or contemplating whether there was any truth in their comments, ask yourself this: do you love yourself? If the answer is yes (and it absolutely should be) then nothing else should matter. There is so much strength in uniqueness, and self love is power. That being said, some comments can cut deeper than others, and sometimes a little confidence booster is in order. If someone’s body shaming gets to you, use it as a chance to go on a self love journey. The aim? Love yourself with such ferocity that these type of comments don’t bother you!
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Take necessary action when you need to
If someone is body shaming you online, block, block and block! I’ve developed a thick skin when it comes to body shaming, but even I have a zero tolerance policy when it comes to hurtful comments online. When it comes to family and friends, it’s important to know when to cut someone out of your life. Let whoever made the comment know that it’s hurtful, or that you don’t find it funny – or that you’re happy the way that you are. Is that friend who made a comment about your weight really your friend? If the comments don’t stop, it might be time to let them go. Your friends should be a positive influence in your life, and love you for you. Simple.
