Redefining Beauty: Embracing Self-Acceptance and Sustainability

I can still picture myself sitting at my study table at home, surrounded by the familiar hum of everyday life. The late afternoon sunlight would filter through the curtains, casting soft patterns on the wall. I’d be flipping through the pages of a glossy magazine, its glamorous models and flawless beauty routines promising an unattainable perfection. My sister and I often sat together, testing out new hairstyles or trying to master a cat-eye with eyeliner, laughing when one of us smudged it too far.

Back then, beauty felt like a race I needed to win. Every ad, every image, seemed to reinforce the idea that if I could just have clearer skin, straighter hair, or a thinner waist, I’d somehow be happier or more confident. I’d wake up early before college to ensure my look was “just right,” constantly comparing myself to others. Like many young women, I didn’t question the unrealistic beauty standards around me—I simply accepted them as the truth.

Life and the Shift in Priorities

As I stepped into adulthood, life brought new responsibilities. Early mornings turned into rush hours, weekends filled with errands, and my energy focused on building a career. Somewhere along the way, the pressure to look a certain way began to fade into the background. It wasn’t a conscious decision at first, but as time passed, I began to see beauty differently.

I remember one day catching my reflection in the mirror after a particularly hectic day. My hair was tousled, and my face was free of makeup. Strangely, instead of criticizing myself, I paused. For the first time, I saw someone resilient, someone unique—and I felt proud of her. That was the moment I started to realize that beauty wasn’t about fitting into a mold. It was about authenticity and self-acceptance.

The Rise of Inclusivity

Today, the beauty world is undergoing a transformation, and it’s inspiring to witness. The growing trend of inclusive beauty standards challenges everything I used to believe. It’s no longer about achieving one ideal look but about celebrating diversity. Different skin tones, body shapes, hair textures—every unique feature is being embraced.

This shift matters deeply, not just for young women navigating their self-image today but for all of us. It’s a reminder that beauty isn’t something we need to chase—it’s something we already have within us.

Choosing Sustainable Beauty

As I embraced my natural self, I also started to question the products I used. I learned about the environmental impact of the beauty industry, the chemicals hidden in cosmetics, and the cruelty behind certain practices. That knowledge changed everything for me.

Now, I make intentional choices. I seek out sustainable beauty products—ones that are eco-friendly, cruelty-free, and kind to my skin and the planet. It’s empowering to know that I can care for myself while making choices that align with my values.

Redefining Beauty, One Step at a Time

Looking back, my journey with beauty has been about rediscovering myself. It’s been about letting go of the need to conform and embracing the features that make me “me.” It’s a process of unlearning and relearning, of growing and becoming more confident with every step.

To anyone reading this, I want you to know that beauty isn’t about perfection. It’s about authenticity, confidence, and kindness—to yourself and the world around you. Let’s redefine beauty together, celebrating our uniqueness and making choices that empower us all.

- Jyothi Lekshmi ,IT Program Manager,MrsIndia Finalist, aspiring blogger/writer,Canada NB