Emani Capers | On 04, Dec 2025

Society has always had expectations for how people should look. Even in the 1950s, the “ideal” body type was a slim, pencil-thin figure. Women with that shape were more often seen in the spotlight, while curvier or “less pretty” women were usually ignored or judged. They try to convince us what a “perfect” body looks like. Now, in the 21st century, those stereotypes still exist. Social media makes it much worse; it plays a huge role in how we see ourselves and others. There are filters for your face and apps to edit your body, and people compare themselves to others, which is not even realistic.

If you’re not meeting their expectation of “pretty,” you have negative people in your comment section trying to pull you down. The more you scroll, the more “trends” pop up. Every week it’s something different. Social media makes things so tough for teenagers especially. You notice things about your body, picking at the tiniest flaws. When someone comments, it always sticks with you. Others may hurt you, but the biggest thing humans do is hurt themselves. The biggest critic of your life is the reflection you see every day. Yes, a person’s words can hurt, but having an overall unhealthy mindset about yourself or your looks isn’t healthy either. Most teenagers struggle with this. Girls always feel pressure to have their nails, hair, and even false eyelashes done, with a skinny waist. At the same time, boys feel pressure to have a strong, muscular body with abs. We are no longer looking good for ourselves but for what society wants us to be.

What you need to do is be kind to yourself. I can’t say “be kind to others first” because, at the end of the day, it comes from within. You have to find yourself before you can help others. Remember your worth and carry yourself to the highest standards — because confidence is something far more valuable than any fashion trend.

I once saw a quote that will forever stick with me by Da’Vine Randolph,
“I’ve always wanted to be different, but I realized I just needed to be myself.”

So yes, be who you are. Shine in that light, take up any space you need to. Society doesn’t control you, your imperfections don’t control you; the only thing that can control you is the mindset you keep.