Women are their own worst critics. We’ve been conditioned to think we need to look and act in unattainable ways.  And no matter how confident we are, there’s always something we think could look better.  We cleanse and primp, wax and pluck, nip and tuck till the cows come home.  The average American girl begins to diet when she is just 8 years old. It’s shocking.

Any woman, no matter their body type, will tell you she has her good days and her bad days. But it’s important to pay heed of those good days and really reinforce positive body image attitudes to help curb the body image crisis in America.

Operation Beautiful is an organization that aims to address issues of insecurity and lack of self-confidence.  The goal is to post anonymous post-it notes in public places for other women to find that emphasize that confidence is the most beautiful accessory.

Caitlin, a 26-year-old living in Charlotte, NC, founded the organization when she felt compelled to end the permeating “negative self-talk in girls, women, and men.”  Caitlin believes that “your beauty comes from the inside, and your unique qualities that make you YOU should be valued and celebrated.”

And she’s right. It’s so important to shift the way we see ourselves, because a healthy outlook permeates all other aspects of our lives.

If we take a break from negative thoughts, and fill ourselves with positive ones, we have the opportunity to feel beautiful every day. After all, a smile is a curve that sets everything straight.

When you’re feeling down, a simple smile or a pleasant hello can really boost your spirits.  A compliment can do wonders. Especially when a stranger tells you you’re beautiful just the way you are. 

For more information, visit http://www.operationbeautiful.com

 -Arianna Schioldager