Own Your Body — It’s the First Step Toward Love and Pride
There’s a saying that goes, “By the time a man turns 40, he is responsible for his own face.”
In today’s world, perhaps it’s fair to say that we are all responsible for our own bodies — not to meet a societal standard, but to care for ourselves with respect and intention.
1. The “Ideal Body Type” Is a Thing of the Past
Gone are the days when being thin with a large bust was the gold standard of attractiveness.
We now see more diverse body types celebrated in media — curvier women starring as heroines, unique features embraced as beautiful. This shift is deeply empowering and long overdue.
2. But That Doesn’t Mean We Get to Stop Caring
Every body is different — shaped by genetics, lifestyle, health, age, and more.
But whatever your shape, being healthy, well-groomed, and having good posture all contribute to how you carry yourself and how others perceive you.
Personally, I have a muscular build and tend to lose weight very easily — possibly due to traits related to my neurodivergence. Others may find the opposite is true for them. Either way, if I’m not mindful, I can easily come across as frail or unhealthy.
(And yes, I don’t have much of a bust, so I focus on keeping my waist defined through daily exercise — otherwise my back and shoulders suffer, too!)
3. The Real Issue Is Neglect, Not Size
Whether you’re slim or full-figured, your body reflects how you treat it.
Lack of self-care — excessive drinking or eating, ignoring basic hygiene or health — tends to show: in your skin, your hair, your energy.
Taking pride in your appearance doesn’t mean chasing a certain look. It means dressing in ways that suit you, keeping up with your well-being, and living intentionally — inside and out.
4. “Don’t Judge Me by My Body” Should Come From a Place of Self-Respect
It’s a powerful statement to ask people to see beyond appearance — but it resonates most when it comes from someone who also respects and cares for themselves.
If we let go of our health or appearance out of laziness or apathy, demanding others to “see the real me” can ring more as self-defense than genuine self-worth.
In Closing
You don’t have to match an outdated “ideal” to be beautiful.
But by discovering what’s lovely about yourself — and nurturing it — your own kind of beauty will begin to shine through.
And when you’re able to hold pride in your body, not because it’s perfect, but because it’s yours, you’ll likely attract people who truly see you for who you are.
