Beauty is self-defining, and it is something which should not get stereotyped by society or even the media. Modern society sets us up with apparently perfect standards of beauty at every turn: slim bodies, flawless skin, symmetrical features. Those standards are incessantly reinforced through advertising, film, and social media and they slowly become a single standard of "ideal beauty". However, beauty is actually deeper than those superficial features; it must come from the uniqueness and inner strength of the individual.
Refusing to be perfect means wisdom, but also a self-accepting attitude. Perfect is not an absolute concept; it is relative. Beauty can be defined differently by different people. Every human being has their own beauty, which emanates from their unique experience, cultural background, and personality. For some, beauty is a bright smile, a pair of tough eyes, an attitude of confidence and independence. Others find beauty in the goodness of one's heart, in one's enthusiasm for life, in one's tolerance for others. It is these so-called imperfect qualities which make up a person's unique charm.
Pursuing "perfection" defined by others easily degenerates into anxiety and self-denial. The perfectionist expects much from oneself and others, fears to commit mistakes or failures, often landing in a vicious circle of self-criticism. Perfectness is abandoned, but the pursuit has not stopped; on the contrary, it means facing oneself with an open and confident attitude. Cease binding to outside standards of beauty that have always beset people, cease trying to conform to those so-called "perfect" images, and learn to appreciate your uniqueness. Learning to accept imperfections is the key to living in a true and free way.
More and more people have been embracing such a diversified understanding of beauty in recent years. The "no makeup" trend that swept through social media, and the fashion industry's display of varied body shapes, skin tones, and ages all work to promote the idea of diversities and realities-not one definition-of beauty. By this self-defined beauty, people can be more comfortable with their imperfections and confident enough to show their own particular charm. The most beautiful you is within your acceptance of self, within the eagerness of being alive, within the fearless and confident presentation of oneself to the world.
Beauty is thus self-defined. It is in the personality, experience, and inner strength of every person. Disavow perfection and learn to embrace and appreciate each part of your being, whether it does or does not meet the so-called "ideal" standards. It is these unique and imperfect parts that make you who you are and that bring out your unique beauty.
Comments