Imperfectly Perfect
Nothing can ever be perfect. I used to think that was just something people told themselves to have an excuse not to work hard or put forth effort.
I didn’t buy into that notion and spent the majority of my early 20’s trying to mold myself into this idyllic image of perfection. I was willing to do what it took to keep myself thin, in shape, and happy. For some reason my image of perfection was being thin, in shape, and happy. I sacrificed my time, my relationships, and my body, treating it as if it was some extension of myself that needed discipline. I hated everything about myself. I would have given up everything just to be perfect. I was consumed.
Sadly, I am not alone. So many people, especially women, struggle with body image and food issues and fight a daily battle just to accept themselves. Forget love. Even today I have to convince myself what healthy really is and that all I can do is my best. I verbally have to tell myself I’m not defined by my body. It sucks, and it’s hard but thankfully I’ve found some useful tools along the way to help me through.
Along with getting my masters in Nutrition Science a few years ago, I recently embarked on a journey teaching yoga. I’m surrounded by health issues on a regular basis—something a doctor once told me was natural for girls with eating issues to gravitate towards. With those words still ringing in my head, I decided to turn the negative connotation into a positive. Not that I’m teaching yoga or writing this blog to prove this doctor otherwise, but I truly want to make a difference. As cheesy as it sounds, I genuinely mean it. I want to share my story so maybe others can find a little comfort and relief from the pressures they feel to be perfect. Maybe I’m putting too much value on my experience, but I’ve learned that sometimes you have to put yourself out there and be vulnerable, even if it scares you.
