WHEN you look into the mirror, do you like what you see? How do you perceive your body? Do you have kind thoughts about it? I can only hope so. Many young and old people have a hard time balancing their dislikes and likes about their bodies. In fact, some people simply do not like the way they look. Do you feel that way? I am here to tell you that you don’t have to dislike your body because we are all different and beautiful in our own ways. In fact, beauty is subjective. As they say, “beauty is in the eyes of the beholder”.

The concept of body image refers to how we view our bodies. It can be negative or positive. I am here to remind you that you should always have a positive mindset towards your body image. It is important for your health and self-love.

Maybe it is true when they say we are our harshest critics. We beat ourselves up simply for how we look, which can be a disadvantage to our ability to grow and thrive. Popular beauty standards dominate mainstream media. These standards can have a significant impact on how people view themselves. You’d find that many people compare their bodies to the “perfect” idea of what people should look like on social media. This is not good.

I want you to remember one thing: social media is virtual reality. It is not the physical reality or experience you live in. Photoshopping, editing and even AI can create entirely different faces and bodies from what people actually look like. There should be no shame in your hair texture, skin colour or body size. Aside from social media, you should learn to accept and love your body both online and offline. I always remind myself that no two persons were made physically alike, not even identical twins. I am unique in my body and ways and will always celebrate my differences because they make me how I am.

If you’re struggling to have a positive body image, I advise you to practise affirmations. You can start by reminding yourself that you’re beautiful every morning in front of a mirror. Whole body image relies on one’s self-impression and awareness, and our surroundings also play a vital part in it. You can also try to understand a bit more about why you dislike the characteristics of your body. Was it because of something someone once said about you when you were younger? Or is it deeper than that? Understand where these negative feelings come from so you can best confront them. I would strongly advise against projecting your “preference” for beauty onto others.

Whether it be in your dating life or in general, you should not do that. You should also always strive to be kind to people. Avoid commenting about people’s bodies because it is not your place to do so. Instead, aim to be kind and supportive. You have no idea about the struggles people face internally daily, and the least we can do is try to make them feel a bit better, even if it’s by complimenting them or being compassionate.