Self-Esteem, Body Shaming, and the Damage We Don’t See
Every day, someone somewhere questions their worth because of a comment made about their body. In a world that constantly tells us how we should look, it’s easy to forget that we all carry invisible battles. That’s why I want to speak up about something personal and powerful today: self-esteem.
The subject of healthy self-esteem has been widely discussed. Today, I want to add my voice to amplify its importance in the life of the average person, men and women alike.
In very simple terms, self-esteem is how one sees oneself. It’s confidence; a feeling of certainty. Whenever that feeling begins to fade, it’s said that a person is experiencing 'low self-esteem.'
Many factors can act as soap and water, washing away a person’s self-esteem and stripping them of the glory of boldness and presence. One of those factors is self-doubt. The moment you start doubting your ability to do things that come naturally to you, your self-esteem begins to erode. Fear and feelings of inadequacy set in, and you start seeking external validation before you can take any step. You develop the unhealthy habit of overthinking before acting.
Another factor that leads to low self-esteem is body shaming. Why tell someone their appearance isn’t good enough when you can’t even create a human being? Yes, there’s freedom of speech, but that doesn’t give you the right to go around telling people they’re not enough. It breaks their spirit.
People are already struggling with pain from the heaviness of big busts, shortness of breath from obesity, stigma for having certain shapes or features… why add to these burdens?
Don’t be the reason someone goes home and contemplates suicide. Don’t be the reason someone starts considering surgery, not because they can afford it or need it, but because your hurtful comments pushed them there.
And to you, whatever you choose to do with your body, let it be on your terms, not on the terms of your mockers. If you want to tone your muscles in a certain way, do it for yourself. Go to the gym because you’re intentional about your appearance, not because someone told you you don’t look good.
Lose weight, not because someone made you feel bad, but because you want to feel better about yourself.
I believe the home front has a big role to play in the upbringing of children. Those who grow up to be body shamers were once children from a home. Parents and guardians must teach their children to respect people’s bodies, even when those bodies have visible differences. Pointing out what is already obvious can leave a lasting mental scar.
In conclusion, you can build healthy self-esteem in your appearance without waiting for someone to shame you into it. Be intentional about what you eat, the kind of clothes you wear, and the habits you nurture. And please, don’t be the person who shames others for how they look. Be responsible. Be respectful.
What are your thoughts on self-esteem and body shaming? Have you ever experienced it or seen someone go through it? Let’s talk in the comments; your voice might encourage someone today.
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