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Beyond the Mirror: A Journey to Self-Acceptance

“Even with all the scars from your mistakes, shape yourself into a constellation. Through
self-love, each flaw becomes strength, and every challenge transforms into growth.”

The journey to self-love is never a straight path; it’s filled with twists, turns, and moments of
doubt. For me, this journey began in my teenage years, a time when I felt disconnected from
my body and overwhelmed by society’s expectations. As I struggled with body image issues,
each glance in the mirror was a reminder of how out of place I felt in my own skin. The
judgments of others made me question my worth, and I found myself shrinking away from
life.
But everything changed in 2020. That was when BTS and their empowering message of self-
love came into my life. Their song “Love Yourself” resonated deeply within me, reminding
me that true love starts from within. It wasn’t just about how I looked—it was about accepting
myself, flaws and all. Their words sparked a shift, a realization that I had been seeking love in
all the wrong places when it had always been within me.
In 2021, I made a conscious decision to embrace self-love. I learned to accept my body and
care for it as it deserved. The road wasn’t easy, and I often faced resistance—both from within
and from the world around me. Waking up early to work out, saying no to unhealthy food, and
silencing the negativity in my mind were challenges, but each step forward brought me closer
to the version of myself I had always dreamed of being.
The real change came when I realized that investing in my physical health wasn’t just for the
moment—it was an investment in my future. Working out in my 20s wasn’t about fitting a
mold; it was about setting a foundation for a life full of energy, independence, and vitality. By
taking care of my body now, I’m building a future where I’ll be strong, healthy, and able to
experience life on my own terms.
The future I’m working towards isn’t one of dependency, but of empowerment. By embracing
self-love and healthier habits today, I’m ensuring that my future will be filled with confidence,
independence, and the strength to live life fully. And the best part? This journey is ongoing.
Each day is an opportunity to grow, to love myself more deeply, and to move closer to the
future I’ve always wanted.
Start your own journey today. Choose self-love, invest in your health, and create a future
where you thrive, independent and empowered.

Riya Kumari
BBA Sem 3