Everywhere you turn there’s validation to be found in achievements, money, beauty and competition. Surely we are worth more than how we look or the grades we get ? Are we not complex and valuable human beings? Each with our own unique abilities and differences. Don’t I have more self worth than a grade or the size of my jeans? Shouldn’t I be happier ? I live in a society where we stare at screens and judge those who walk by for their differences to us. Do I belong in a society where those who have money are treated with more respect than those struggling ?.
After spending yet another day body checking and equating my self worth and days happiness to how much I weighed or how much fat I could grip off my stomach, I decided to journal and vent, then scroll through youtube. Low and behold a TedX talk about society and eating disorders. It all rang so true. After watching this I realised that I can make a difference in this world, if I can be just one person who rebels against feeling compelled to compare myself to society’s ideals then I can influence others. I can spread happiness and freedom, just like that video did for me. You can too.
I don’t have to partake in consumerism, I don’t have to destroy the planet bit by bit, I don’t have to wear jeans (which I find uncomfortable), I don’t have to join in with judging others, I don’t have to get perfect grades, the house, the car, the office.
I was always told to do a job I love and will be happy in, I was always taught that money is a side effect of doing a job you love. I know that money doesn’t make you happy, but I also know it sure helps make life that bit easier. Therefore I have always strived to do better for myself, to ensure that I will be able to stand on my own two feet. I know what its like to struggle money wise, I cant say its fun and so I don’t want to struggle, but that doesn’t mean I cant do a job I love and makes a difference in this world.
So far on my mission to break out of society’s rules ive grown up not eating meat, ive stopped drinking milk, I have been drinking Aplro for over a year. I avoid and substitute dairy as much as I can. I don’t eat fish, I don’t use face wash containing microbeads, ive asked for vegan Easter eggs, ive asked for ethical birthday presents, ive reduced clothes buying (restricting myself to ethical brands only), I use Dr bronner’s hair wash which is free from sodium laurel sulphate. I sign animal and environmental petitions.
Looking at all that I realise I’m actually making a difference, they all seem so small and insignificant to me, but they are all useful. It all helps. Its not just about rebelling against society, there are parts of society that I love. Its about realising that I have more self worth that what some advert, magazine or social media content says. You do to ! You are worth more than your pay check or best pair of shoes. You shouldn’t feel like you’re nothing without the newest phone, shoes, outfit, makeup, hairstyles, trend. You are unique and have something wonderful to give to this world, use it.
p.s. the links in the paragraph above contain information.
Chevion x
chevion98 