The Killing Machine Called Beauty Standards

Beauty standards are ideal physical characteristics that are socially and culturally determined and accepted. Skin tone, facial characteristics, hair quality, body shape, and fashion sense are among the variables that determine them. When you can't keep up with the rapid changes in beauty standards, you'll hear comments like "you're ugly" from people who think you're incapable of taking care of yourself. Indeed, I hold society responsible. If the world or other people hadn't told us what is and isn't beauty. Perhaps there were no criteria of beauty, and you will begin to love yourselves.

The very definition of beauty differs from place to place, nation to nation, and community to community. Asians, for instance, typically define beauty as having pale skin. People in the West often define beauty as having tan skin. This is kind of depressing because we would be so powerful if we could just accept the way we are. But it's also sad how much effort we have to put just to convince people that they shouldn't be worried about beauty standards and be what they want to be and there's no need for them to fit in those toxic beauty standards. What makes it even sadder is the fact that the toxic beauty standards grow and are being told by people around us, our group of friends, our people, and our own family.

These are some effects caused by beauty standards :

1. Judge Yourself so much

Have you ever felt like you're ugly? Are you looking at yourself in the mirror and judging yourself that you're ugly, fat, and you are not enough because you do not fit in beauty standards?

I'm sure that a lot of you have experienced this, and maybe you doing it every day. When you look at yourself in the mirror or photos, you are insecure and tell yourself that you're ugly, fat, not pretty enough, fat, short, etc. And then after that, you're crying over yourself because you think that you are not enough to be pretty or handsome. Also, The person who judges you, not just yourself but other people. They judge you because you do not fit in their version of beauty standards. This is what beauty standards do, if you do not fit in you're ugly. And people just follow it, because they don't care about themselves and just care about what others think about them.

2. Kill your confidence

Have you ever been bullied because of your physical appearance? Someone said you are ugly because you have a flat nose, frizzy hair, and a dark skin tone. Which is having a flat nose, frizzy hair, dark skin, etc are normal. There is nothing wrong with that, but because people have been told what beauty is and what is not. They get insecure if they do not fit in beauty standards, they kill their confidence, and are always insecure about themselves.

3. Want to be someone else

I'm sure you guys have a muse or favorite celebrities that you think are pretty and handsome. Or maybe just someone that you think is so pretty or handsome. And now I ask you, do you want to be like them? But why? I'm talking about looks so I ask you here about physical appearance. Why do you want to be like them? Is it because they have a pointed nose? Is it because they have straight hair? Is it because they are tall? They muscle?

It's not a bad thing if you want to be someone else, or want to have a part of someone else's body. But, it gets worse when you want it badly and do everything for it. There are a lot of people who have plastic surgery to become their favorite celebrities, they spend so much money to be beautiful like their muse.

And these are some tips that you can do, to be a real beauty :

1. Be kind

The first thing is kind to yourself. Treat yourself right, don't judge yourself, start loving yourself, and remember you deserve the best. So give the best for yourself.

The second is kind to everyone after you treat yourself right, you have to be kind to others. Don't expect to get anything in return, just do it. Let's be a positive person and spread the energy of positivity.

2. Be healthy

First is to use skincare, it isn't just about looks; it's a health boost too. A good routine defends against environmental stress, keeps skin hydrated, and protects from harmful UV rays. Beyond appearances, it's a key player in overall health, nurturing resilient skin and self-care vibes. Investing in skincare isn't just a beauty move; it's a wellness choice.

Second is to eat healthy foods, it isn't just for looks; it's a power move for both appearance and health. Nutrient-packed foods give you a radiant glow and maintain a healthy weight. Beyond looks, they reduce disease risks and amp up overall well-being. Choosing healthy foods isn't just about the mirror; it's about a vibrant, long-term you.

Last but not least is exercise, it isn't just about reps and routines; it's your shortcut to feeling amazing. Whether it's a jog, yoga, or a dance-off, moving your body is a mood lifter and energy booster. It's not just for looks; it's about being strong and ready for life's adventures. So, find your groove -- whether it's a brisk walk or a quick workout -- and let the good vibes roll. Exercise isn't a task; it's a celebration of what your awesome body can do, setting you up for a happier, healthier you!

3. Be better every day

Increasing value is crucial for personal and professional growth. It involves continuously improving skills, building connections, adapting to change, and making wise financial decisions. Prioritizing health and well-being ensures sustained energy. Ultimately, it's about reaching your potential, achieving goals, and creating a fulfilling life. And the last is that you have to focus on your goals. Don't let anyone or anything distract you from your goals. If there is someone or something that you want to do, make sure that they don't distract you from your goals but support you and can help you to achieve your goals.

Beauty standards have a lot of versions. Everyone has their beauty standards, so don't think that you have to conform to any beauty standards. Make yourself your beauty standard. Don't think about what others say, think, or feel about you. Be yourself, focus on yourself, increase your value as a human being, and be healthy. Regarding your appearance, you just have to be a neat and clean person. If you do that, people and yourself will be comfortable looking at you. And remember, don't let beauty standards kill confidence!