Comparison is Nonsense
In a world where media images flood our daily lives, it's almost second nature to compare ourselves to the women we see on our screens and in magazines. From their flawless skin to their perfect life, these comparisons can leave us feeling less than, inadequate, or even invisible in our own lives. But it's time to step back and look at the reality behind these seemingly perfect images. Here are five reasons why comparing ourselves to women in the media, and really, even our peers, is nonsense.
Remember, for many women in the media, their appearance is a significant part of their job. Models, TV personalities, and movie stars often devote a substantial portion of their day to working out, strict diets, and makeup and hair—all designed to maintain a certain image. Their schedule, their food, their entire lifestyle is often centered around looking a certain way for the camera. Unlike the rest of us, who balance careers, family, and everything else, these women have the luxury and the requirement to prioritize their appearance above all else. Although we need to take good care of our appearance and a workout is a part of a healthy lifestyle, it is not a requirement and there is a difference there.
Most people in the public eye have an extensive team of professionals—makeup artists, hair stylists, wardrobe consultants, and photographers—all dedicated to making them look their best. These experts work behind the scenes to create the flawless images we see, a level of support that is not reflective of average daily life.
Beyond their professional life, many women in the media have a network of support to manage their personal lives. Nannies, drivers, house cleaners, and personal assistants are common, allowing them to devote more time to their careers and public appearances. This kind of help is a luxury that not everyone can afford, making their lifestyle largely unattainable for most people.
Living in the public eye comes with its own set of challenges. Every action, every choice, every appearance is constantly scrutinized and judged by the public and the media. This relentless judgment can take a significant toll on mental health and self-esteem. There’s a high price to pay for fame, and not something to envy. The paparazzi love to take photos of celebs stuffing their faces with unhealthy food, or they catch people when they are unprepared to have their photo taken.
Perhaps the most important point to remember is that what we see in the media has often been carefully edited. Photoshop - the photo editor and the ability to take countless shots to get the perfect angle, and even filters, mean that what we're comparing ourselves to isn't real. These images are crafted illusions, designed to sell an idea of perfection that doesn't exist in real life. Believe me, these people did not wake up looking like this. It takes a big team hours of preparation and hundreds or thousands of photos to get the perfect shot.
For all the hardworking women out there, be the real you—dedicated, loving, and resilient. Instead of comparing yourselves to an impossible standard, focus on your health, happiness, and well-being, and take care of yourself as well as you take care of others.
