Like most women in the world today - I'm guilty of a bit of vanity. And while I'm probably less worried about my appearance than most, I absolutely find myself criticizing the way I look, adding a touch of makeup before I go out into public, and apologizing when I look tired. I use the snapchat filters for my selfies, obsess a little if I look heavy in an IG post, and get a little self conscious comparing myself to someone else' highlight reel.
Thankfully, I'm generally really happy with the way I look and who I am. I realize that the flaws are what make me unique and that my soul shines through, making me one damn beautiful babe. But I'm human. I have the moments that I'm just not comfortable in my body.
But I also preach a lot to other women (and men) that confidence is loving who you are without comparing yourself to everyone else. It's finding the beauty in everyone (including yourself) and celebrating whatever makes you and everyone else feel beautiful.
For some women, beauty is a full face of makeup, having that "perfect" model body, and every hair in place. And for others, it's extra weight, muscles, and minimal makeup. And for someone else, its something entirely different. For me - I feel my best when I'm wearing minimal makeup and in my workout gear. I associate so much of my happiness and confidence with sports, so when I am in that element, I radiate complete self assurance.
Recently - I took a trip to Belize with two of my best girlfriends. It took me out of my comfort zone as I realized - I had never been out of the country without my parents. I know, 31 and all of my international travel has been with my family. And while you may think that makes me spoiled (I am), it also makes me feel loved and thankful. But being able to go out of the country and handle everything on our own, I love the independence that gave me. Make no mistake - I grew up very privileged, but I was also given the skills to thrive on my own. And for that, I am forever grateful.
Back to comfort zones. I decided to challenge myself to focusing on the adventure of being in a new country. To not worry about anything but maximizing my time taking in the culture and experiences with my girls. So I didn't pack makeup. That's right. No makeup. And I'm not talking "I didn't pack makeup" meaning I only took bronzer and mascara. I took no makeup. The only beauty products I packed were sunscreen and moisturizer. And the world didn't end.
I spent 5 days makeup free with only the sunshine to give me that natural glow. And you know what I learned? It's pretty liberating to just show up as you are. To rock what your mama gave ya! I felt all kinds of bad ass exploring Belize without a stitch of vanity (FINE - dry shampoo attended because no need to be gross). I didn't hide from the camera, I didn't worry about looking less than my best - I just owned it. Because happiness is honestly the best filter anyways.
As cheesy and cliche as it sounds (and yes, I do generally have good skin so fine, could be a little easier for me) - I got some extra boost of confidence from the experience. It made me feel incredibly empowered to show up as I am and shine on (literally, the humidity is not forgiving...). The moral of the story? You gotta learn to love you as you, whatever that means to your inner diva - and only then can you look and feel your best. Listen to what gives you the most joy and where you feel your most confidence. And whenever you need a pick me up, get back to that place. For me, that's a whole lot of #NoFilter.
#SparkleOn my Sequins!