The Woman BossThe Woman Boss
Body shaming is a topic that many of us have encountered, yet it often remains shrouded in silence. As someone who has experienced this firsthand, I want to share my journey and shed light on the impact of body shaming, not just on individuals, but on our society as a whole.
Growing up, I became acutely aware of my body and how it was compared to those around me. Every glance in the mirror, every interaction with peers, and even the casual comments from family members emphasized my size and appearance. I distinctly recall the bullies at school and the penetrating stares I received from people around me. While these instances might seem minor to some, they carved deep grooves into my self-esteem that I still struggle to fill.
Frequently, I was tagged with labels like “too fat” or “biggy” and being told to smile less phrases that seemed mild at first but gradually chipped away at my confidence. Each comment, whether intended as a joke or an observation, added to a growing weight of insecurity that I carried with me. I began to internalize these judgments, allowing them to shape my perception of myself.
But it wasn’t just the words that affected me; it was also the overwhelming feeling of being constantly scrutinized. I found myself caught constantly comparing my body against those of my friends and family members. This unhealthy habit bred insecurity and a distorted self-image that overshadowed my accomplishments and personality. Instead of celebrating my strengths, I became trapped in a mindset that only focused on flaws, diminishing my sense of self-worth and joy.
Body shaming does more than hurt feelings; it can lead to serious mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. Research shows that individuals who experience body shaming are more likely to engage in harmful behaviors to modify their bodies, such as extreme dieting or excessive exercise.
For me, body shaming became a barrier to showcase talents. I missed out on opportunities to express my feelings because of lack of confidence and being in social gatherings—because I felt unworthy and thought they will see my insecurities and use them against me. The fear of judgment kept me from forming genuine connections with others.
It took years, but I finally began to reclaim my narrative. I started surrounding myself with body-positive influences—TV shows, social media influencers, books and friends who celebrated diversity in body shapes and sizes. I learned to appreciate my body for what it could do rather than how it looked.
I also began to practice self-love. Simple affirmations became powerful tools. Phrases like “I am enough” and “My worth is not defined by my appearance” helped reshape my mindset. Gradually, I learning to embrace my uniqueness and let go of the need for validation from others.
One of the most important lessons I learned is the impact of kindness. We often don’t realize how our words affect others. A simple compliment can uplift someone’s day, while a thoughtless comment can linger in their mind for years. As I always say be “BE NICE TO EVERYONE, BECAUSE YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT PEOPLE ARE GOING THROUGH”
As I navigate my body image journey, I strive to be a source of support for others. I encourage everyone to think before they speak, to promote body positivity, and to celebrate diversity in all its forms.
To conclude, body shaming is a pervasive issue that can affect anyone, regardless of their shape or size. My journey has taught me that it’s not just about how we see ourselves, but how we treat others. By fostering a culture of kindness and acceptance, we can create a world where everyone feels valued and loved for who they are.
Let’s break the cycle of body shaming together. It’s time to embrace our bodies, celebrate our differences, and encourage one another on our paths to self-acceptance. Remember, you are more than your reflection in the mirror. You are worthy, just as you are.
MAIMUNA MBACKEH, INTERN
Maimuna Mbackeh, InternBE NICE TO EVERYONE, BECAUSE YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT PEOPLE ARE GOING THROUGH
