Ladies, can we all admit that the lifelong struggle to stay fit and healthy is daunting? I can.

Since childhood, I’ve struggled with my weight and the manufactured idea of beauty. As a child, I loved my Barbie dolls. She was young, gorgeous, tiny waist, huge boobs, long legs. Certainly, this is the ideal model for girls, right?

Fast forward to high school. (No pressure there 😉) We learned how mean teenagers can be. Better stay thin, or they’ll taunt you. We’re still learning about our bodies. Everything is new. And you’re fighting a battle against acne to top it off. Not pleasant for an awkward youth with little confidence.

We find ourselves in our 20’s. This was my decade of personal enlightenment and independence. Time to set aside the self doubt. Take care of yourself. Staying fit was easy. I walked everywhere, and couldn’t afford to eat because the rent was due. Most effective diet I’ve ever been on.

Next, the thirtysomethings. We have established ourselves. Marriage, house, kids. Finding balance, right? This is exactly the time I decided to like myself.

As women, we are constantly trying to please others. Having spent way too much time concerned with the opinions of people that don’t matter, I have come to the conclusion that love of self is more important than the need for external approval.

I’m not advocating for an unhealthy lifestyle. We need to be careful about what we put in our bodies. We need to stay fit and strong. At the same time, we need to accept ourselves, unconditionally.

We can improve ourselves by working toward personal goals. But, you must love yourself through the journey.

For now, I’m still fat. But, I’m happy. And I’m hopeful.