Hi babes!
Today’s post is going to be very raw and honest, so buckle up. I saw an image on Pinterest a while ago that has really been talking to me lately. It said “imagine if we obsessed about the things we loved about ourselves.” Oftentimes we are hyper-focused on what we dislike about ourselves or current situations, instead of focusing on the positives.
When I was the maid of honor in my best friend’s wedding last year, my dress exposed my arms. I was so self conscious, but put on a happy face and did my best to accept myself as I was and have a good time. When we got the photos from that day back, the first thing I said to Katie was “I love these pictures, but my arms look horrible and are the first thing I see when I look at these.” She replied that my beautiful face was the first thing she saw.
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For years, and to this day, I have a hard time showing my arms off or wearing anything that exposes them completely. I have focused so much energy into worrying about how much I dislike them and hiding them, when I have so many other amazing things about myself that I could’ve been focusing on instead.
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I have freckles that are quirky and cute and make me unique. My skin is golden and dewy and glimmers in the sun. I have voluminous eyelashes that curl perfectly on their own. I have thick, athletic legs that help me get around every day. My soft, curvy stomach is strong and helps me sustain a healthy plant-based diet. I’m a kind, loyal person who treats everyone with respect. I have stretch marks on my arms and tummy from growth phases during high school that remind me of fun times with family and friends. I’m perfectly me!
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Obsessing over the things we LOVE about ourselves is so much more productive and powerful than focusing on things we dislike.
Self love and body positivity are a journey, and like everyone, I have good days and bad days. Some days I feel like a curvy goddess, and others I cringe when I walk past a mirror. There is no right way to love your body, but it’s important to remember that a number on a scale, a size on a tag or the measurement of your waist are NEVER what determine your worth.
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Surround yourself with people who build you up, support you and remind you of how amazing you truly are. For me, that’s having friends like Katie, and a boyfriend like Doug who tells me how beautiful I am every time he sees me. It’s also refocusing negative thoughts and feelings into positive actions.
Next time you look in the mirror or see a photo of yourself, I dare you to find something that you absolutely love. I recently looked at some of the pictures from Katie’s wedding, and I saw a happy, confident woman with fabulous hair and makeup who was supporting her best friend and celebrating love with loved ones! It was amazing.
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Outfit details: Cold shoulder yellow maxi dress, $20 | Tan wedge heels, $40 | Tan bow clutch, $20 | Tassel earrings, $12
I can’t wait for you to start focusing on all of the amazing things that make you you. If you’re in the mood to share, I’d love to hear about some of the things you’re loving about yourself lately!
Thank you so much for reading!
So much love,
ALL THE FEELS, love you my gorgeous best friend!
Author
Love you bestie! Thanks for being an amazing friend and person.
thank you thank you THANK YOU for sharing this. first of all, i can’t think of a more beautiful person inside and out than you – the things you mentioned that you love about yourself are only the beginning of the long list that make you perfect! i’ve been struggling with this for a bit too, but i’ve also read that quote (on Pinterest, my fave) and it made me think. i need to be focusing more on the positives, as well. i so appreciate you openness, authenticity, and this much-needed reminder!!!
Author
Could you be any sweeter?! We all have so many wonderful things about ourselves to focus on, especially you! Thank you so much for taking the time to read and comment on this. It means so much. <3
great post we should focus on the positives instead of the perceived negatives. your arms are lovely btw and i do agree with your friend your pretty face is quite noticeable!
Author
I’m so happy you loved this piece! Thank you so much for stopping by and commenting <3