Body Image Vs Capitalism

Yesterday, I came across an Instagram post that hit home: “Capitalism wants you to hate your body so you can keep buying more crap that you think will make you love it.” This resonated with me and reinforced my decision to skip shopping for the latest cute workout set. After all, I already have plenty of clothes—some of which I haven’t fit into for a while. But I’m not ready to donate them to Goodwill just yet; I believe I’ll wear them again someday.

I know how that sounds. It’s easy to dismiss this mindset as denial. Still, I genuinely believe I’ll get back into my regular clothes, even if my current wardrobe consists mostly of sweats and gym wear. My body has changed, and while I could list all the reasons—my butt is bigger, my hips are wider, and my stomach isn’t as flat as it was a year ago—I prefer to think of it as life happening. Moving across the country and settling into a new home has brought its own challenges, and I’m learning to honor my body through these seasons of change.

I won’t lie; it’s not easy. There are days when I look in the mirror and feel disgusted because I don’t like how I look. But I’m actively working to change that perspective. We all have things we can improve on, but the pressure from capitalism doesn’t help.

Everywhere I turn, I see ads featuring “perfect” models in the trendiest outfits, and instead of feeling empowered, I often feel inadequate. I catch myself thinking, “I need to look like her.” But that’s not the right mindset. Instead, I want to shift my thinking to, “I would look beautiful in that dress too, but I don’t need it to feel good about myself.” True self-love can’t come from material possessions that promise to boost our self-esteem, even if just temporarily.

I refuse to let capitalism dictate my self-worth just because I’m not a size 2! In fact, I wouldn’t want to be a size 2. My body is built strong; I grew up swimming and playing volleyball, which has given me a wider upper body and strong legs.

As you read this, I urge you to guard yourself against the subtle ways capitalism can make you feel inferior. Remind yourself every day, “I am beautiful.” You don’t need external validation or things to feel empowered. Remember, you define your own beauty and strength. Shopping isn’t inherently harmful, but it becomes a problem when we seek validation through it. Ultimately, no one can give you what you already have—your own unique beauty.