On the barricades: Time to get rid of those beauty standards

In a world that is constantly evolving, it is high time to break free from the suffocating yoke of the traditional ideal of beauty. All our lives, we have been exposed to unrealistic images of perfection. But let's face it - perfection is boring and authentic beauty is what makes us truly unique. It's time to abandon that outdated beauty ideal and embrace who we really are.

The one-size-fits-all norm

From childhood, we have seen and heard that only a certain type of physique and appearance is 'beautiful'. If you want to belong, to 'make it' in the world, it is best to conform to this ideal picture. But let's be real: people come in all shapes, sizes and colours. The diversity of our bodies is something to celebrate, not to be ashamed of. It is time to move away from this nonsense and be proud of our own unique beauty.

Real beauty...

Yup, the biggest cliché: real beauty is inside. But it is true. Self-confidence, kindness and the life energy you exude - those are the things that leave an indelible impression. If we all worked on cultivating our inner beauty instead of striving for the outer picture, we would be a lot happier.

Not good enough

Chasing the traditional beauty ideal, even unconsciously, can be quite exhausting. Constant comparisons with filtered Instagram images can lead to a negative self-image and even mental health problems. By constantly being confronted with expectations you do not recognise yourself in, you unconsciously start believing that you are not good enough the way you are. You automatically start adapting and making yourself smaller and so, little by little, you lose your own authenticity.

The power of self-expression

When we stop clinging to how we think we should look, a world of self-expression and creativity opens up to us. The way we dress, style our hair and use make-up becomes an expression of who we are instead of who we think we should be. Enjoy experimenting without worrying about what someone else thinks... How wonderful is that!

Role models of the future

By saying goodbye to the outdated beauty ideal, we create a positive change for future generations. Our children deserve to grow up in a world where they can be themselves, without being judged by their looks. If we pave the way for self-acceptance and true beauty now, we will build a world of empowerment and positivity.

A new definition

So: time to change course and say hello to all those spoken and unspoken rules. Surely we are much more than the superficial standards imposed on us? Together, we can write a new definition of beauty: one that reflects who we really are.