What I Would Tell My 20-Year-Old Self

I would tell my 20-year-old self a lot of things about a lot of stuff, but this is what I would tell her about weight:

Dear Me, at Age 20:

You are not fat.  You are not even remotely fat.

Talking about your weight incessantly is boring. No one wants to hear it.

Complaining about your weight incessantly is boring. No one wants to hear it.

Complaining about your weight around people who actually are overweight is inconsiderate and rude.

Talking about how fat you are may be seen by others as fishing for compliments, which is also rude.

You are beautiful and strong.  Don’t contradict me.  You are. 

Your body type may not be the desired “magazine perfect” type but its sturdiness and strength will serve you well.

Please don’t ever avoid a fun outdoor activity because you think you are too overweight to be seen by others.  You’re not.

You will gain weight in the future.

There are worse things than gaining weight.  Much worse.

Life goes on, even if you gain weight.

You can even be happy at a higher weight.  Imagine that! 

I know you cannot truly hear this at this point in your life, but you will waste many, many hours worrying about your weight that could be spent on other, more productive things.  I wish you wouldn’t, but I know you will.

Much love,

You, in 30 years.