Speaking your truth and being your most authentic self
Social Media Unfollowing Spree
Sometimes social media platforms like Instagram can cause harmful and triggering effects on people when it comes to body image, body confidence and self-esteem. This is why it is incredibly important to create an environment that makes you feel safe, comfortable and connected in positive ways. According to plus size model Clementine Desseaux, curating her Instagram feed to reflect an authentic world around her has helped her feel more confident and connected with herself. She believes it helps to be following women and brands that support and “feature all sizes, ethnicities, abilities, identities, ages and shying away from retouched, over-curated content. I want to see what’s real and I want to see that I am not the only one to struggle!”
Don’t be afraid to unfollow people who aren’t providing you with the energy you deserve.
If you are constantly comparing yourself to someone on Instagram or if viewing their posts makes you feel bad about yourself…why are you still following them? Especially if you don’t know the person! Say goodbye to negative and toxic energy.
Taking a Pause and Reflecting
What makes you feel the best? When do you feel your best? What makes you feel small? What causes you anxiety or stress?
Taking the time to pause and reflect about what brings you joy, or sadness can help you relieve hidden stress and anxiety. According to model Ali Tate Cutler, reflecting and answering impending questions during quarantine and isolation time gave her the chance to unfold feelings and truths she would probably not have given much thought to on a regular basis.
I would highly recommend journaling as a tool for reflecting and manifesting positive thoughts and energy, as well as releasing negativity and everyday stresses. Creating prompts or questions for you to answer and reflect on are crucial if you’re trying to understand yourself on a deeper and more intuitive level.
Being Vulnerable and Relatable
When I go on Instagram and I read captions and posts from friends, strangers, influencers, and celebrities about their personal experiences with body confidence, self-love, disorders, issues, etc., I feel really inspired and connected to them. I think that being open and vulnerable is a scary and beautiful thing, but it’s so worth it because you get the chance to relate to people in a genuine way.
Oftentimes we feel like we’re alone in certain situations, but the reality is that everyone is struggling with something. Being willing to share your story and open a conversation with friends or strangers is inspiring because you get to be a part of a shared experience with someone that you may not have expected to relate to.
So, instead of comparing yourself to people online, use your social media to create and be a part of conversations. Follow people who inspire you, people who make you feel good, people who you would want to be friends with in real life.
Don’t be too hard on yourself, you got this!
