[AllyOops!]

Oh boy, this is a challenge. I drive myself (and others) nuts with my insanely critical, obsessive-compulsive self-image. I'm a perfectionist, and honey? I ain't perfect. It's a circus of flaws when I see my reflection!

I'm trying to embrace positivity when it comes to my self-image, and this thread is a nice opportunity to start.

What I like?

I like the way that I look when I wear nothing but a genuine, real smile.

I no longer wear make-up. For work, I apply a little concealer, Benetint, and clear lip balm and that's it! I wore a full face of make-up on Sunday night because I had a very special occasion that was formal, and it was the first time I had worn make-up in about 9 months!

I like that I no longer spend most of my time getting ready for life- I spend more time living it. My whole life has been endless energy spent on outside appearances. The price of acceptance. I thought nobody would like me if I was just "myself". The truth is, I didn't like myself. I didn't know who "myself" even was.

Those who truly love me or care about me don't focus on what I look like or what I wear (except for a certain appearance-obsessed family member who is hurtfully vocal while disapproving my new natural look). While I still am girly, I'm also a whole lot more. I'm spending time discovering me, and you just can't find that in a lipgloss wand.