We live in a world where physical appearance is constantly being evaluated and judged. Everywhere we look, we are bombarded with images of “perfect” bodies and messages telling us that our worth is based on how we look. However, the truth is that your value as a person has nothing to do with your physical appearance. This post will include some tips to help you remember that your value is not determined by how your body looks and how to not judge or discriminate others by their physical appearance.
I grew up in a society where it was “normal” to mock and tease others. As a child, I and many others didn’t understand the long-term effects that teasing would have on someone. To this day, I know of adults who are still referred to by their teasing name. Not all teasing names are “cute”. When you are overweight and especially in comparison to those your age and in the same class or grade as you – when someone refers to you as “Fatty boom boom” or says this out loud when you pass, ” Fatty on the railway…picking up stones…” it is daunting. It is body shaming.
It is something that negatively affects mental wellbeing. It is something that can stay with you for the rest of your life and traumatise you. It is therefore crucial that parents and other caregivers provide guidance to children which educate them to not make fun of how others look or to pick on any of their physical features which stand out, like big ears or someone being very short or very tall as examples.
Tips to remind you that your value is not determined by how your body looks
- Remind yourself that everyone is unique and beautiful in their own way. We all have different shapes, sizes, and features, and that’s what makes us special. It’s important to not judge or discriminate others based on their physical appearance.
- Recognize that you are more than just your physical appearance. You are a complex and unique person with a wealth of talents, abilities, and qualities that make you who you are.
- Remember that true beauty comes from within. When you are kind, compassionate, and confident, you radiate a beauty that is much more meaningful than any physical attribute.
- Be mindful of the media you consume. Be mindful of the images and messages that you’re exposed to and make a conscious effort to surround yourself with positive and realistic examples of beauty.
- Practice self-care. Taking care of your physical, emotional and mental well-being can help improve your self-esteem and self-worth.
- Stop comparing yourself to others. Comparing yourself to others is an easy way to feel bad about yourself. Instead, focus on your own progress and celebrate your own successes.
- Remember that everyone has body insecurities. It’s easy to feel alone in your insecurities, but the truth is that everyone has them. Recognize that you are not alone in your struggles and that it’s okay to have body insecurities.
- Practice empathy and understanding. Try to understand where other people are coming from and what they might be going through.
- Avoid making assumptions or stereotypes based on someone’s physical appearance.
- Treat everyone with kindness and respect, regardless of how they look.
- Lastly, try to focus on the things you love about yourself, your body and your mind.
Teaching children from a young age the same values are crucial for a better and more inclusive future. It is therefore important for parents to teach their children from a young age that everyone is unique and beautiful in their own way, and that our worth is not determined by how our bodies look. Parents can teach their children to practice empathy, understanding, and kindness towards others, regardless of their physical appearance.
By following these tips and focusing on self-care and self-love, you can remind yourself that you are worthy and deserving of love and respect, no matter what you look like.
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