TW: body image, weight gain how do y’all get used to seeing your new body in a bikini after you’ve gained weight? i keep telling myself that it’s normal to gain weight and not look the same as i was in highschool but it’s hard 😕 i follow body positive accounts on all my social medias, i unfollow/block anyone who doesn’t make me feel good about myself. i do all of it to try and make it better but it doesn’t seem to work sometimes. i’m also worried about what other people will think/say but that’s a different topic for another time.

You've made great progress so far, by doing all the things you listed. But accepting how your body looks, and appreciate it for what it does for you, that comes from within. You have to live your whole life with this body, don't waste that time on pointless things such as comparing it to others. Our minds easily exaggerate our flaws, whether it's a small belly pouch, stretchmarks or a pimple on your face.. most people barely take notice of these flaws on other people. Do you ever care or focus on such "flaws" on other people? If you do notice something, you probably forget about it soon afterwards and carry on with your day. Buy clothes that fit you well and make you feel confident. That makes such a huge difference! And emphasise any part of your body that you actually like. If you like your legs, show them off! And so on.

I think this is really normal. It takes time and effort and work to remove all the thoughts and ideas that society has built into us. It takes continuous, hard work to just accept yourself as you are. You’re doing great! I agree with above having clothes that fit well and make you feel good really help. But you also don’t have to jump straight into wearing only a bikini. If you’re a little self conscious wear/bring a pair of shorts or an oversized shirt as well. And as the day goes on take off or put on something to make you feel good. Baby steps. I also think as you get older you realise that everyone is worried about themselves and really don’t care that much about you. And if they do, you actually don’t care about their opinions anyway 🤷🏻‍♀️

thank you both so much. your kind words helped me feel better and i actually went out on the beach rocking my bathing suit! 💗 i had such a fun day today