Summer brings so many fun times and has the potential to be a great, relaxing time for everyone. Unfortunately, summer is also notorious for bringing self-consciousness and judgement of self and others, which is obviously difficult for women, usually the target of such judgement.
Here are some things that women could do with hearing this summer, to replace so much of the ugly sentiment that gets associated with summer body image.
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1. Dress for the weather, not other people.
Speaking as someone who is going to be spending the summer in Arizona, I have no intention of dressing to please other people. When it is 110+ degrees outside, I am going to wear shorts and a tank top, if not just a bathing suit top. When it's so hot outside, people want to feel cool and comfortable. You should not dress yourself in uncomfortable jeans or anything else that other people think you should be wearing because you "don't look good" in those other clothes. Forget them! As great as it is to have other people think you look good, you don't owe them anything. They can sweat to death in unsuitable summer clothes while you are rocking cool and comfortable outfits.
2. Bathing suits are, in fact, for everyone.
People like to enjoy their summer, and one of the most fun parts is getting to go to the pool or the beach. You do, despite popular opinion, have the right to wear a bathing suit even if your thighs touch. Women can enjoy this pool or beach time in whatever bathing suit they feel most comfortable in: a one-piece, a two-piece, a tankini--anything! If you feel like you're rocking it, then newsflash: you probably are! There is no rule that says you can't wear a bathing suit. If people judge you for what kind of bathing suit you wear, they're probably the most self-conscious people. So tell them they look great, put on some shades, and get your tan on! (Or just sunscreen if you burn easily).
3. Enjoying summer time does not always have to include other people.
While everyone loves getting the chance to see friends and family over the summer (since people usually have more time off and everyone is out of school), there's nothing wrong with taking some time to yourself. Go for a drive, get some ice cream, go for a nice walk--but you don't have to do any of these things with other people. You always deserve some chill time, and you are entitled to some privacy, too.
4. Do things for enjoyment, not for social media.
People (and a lot of the times, girls--not saying boys don't post on social media, but that girls usually do it more) always get so caught up in how many likes their summer picture on a boat will get, but sometimes, people get distracted. They forget to live in the moment and enjoy what is right in front of them, instead looking online for more enjoyment. My suggestion? Take a nice walk or go on an adventure WITHOUT your phone. You will be surprised at the conversations you will have and the observations you will make without it--and it will be worth it.
5. Summer romance can happen, but don't get your hopes up.
Everyone dreams of finding that perfect summer romance--long walks on the beach, getting ice cream together, and meeting in an exotic location. This is great, of course, but if you focus so much on getting that "summer romance" you have always read about in young adult books, you are going to forget about the rest of the summer. When everyone jumps in the pool and laughs with each other, you'll be too busy figuring out how to position your body best for that attractive lifeguard to notice you. Regardless of the season, you can't force romance to occur. Just live your life, and, when you least expect it, romance might show up.
6. Make memories, not enemies.
Summer is supposed to be a fun time. Obviously, life can get in the way and things can happen, relationships can get strained or even fall apart, but try not to let the burden of life ruin the summer. Go outside and feel the sun (or rain, I don't know where you live) on your face, and remember how lucky you are that you get to experience summer. Everything else seems less complicated after sitting outside for a while--don't let one bad conversation or interaction ruin the season. Forgive and forget (if you can), and try and enjoy living in the moment with your loved ones (or just yourself) and your summer will be truly unforgettable!
