As I lounged by the pool, my gaze was drawn to a stunning woman across the water. With her flat stomach, flawless figure, and chic bikini, I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of envy. She had kids, just like me, yet her confidence seemed to shine brighter than the sun. Meanwhile, I was caught in a loop of negative self-talk, reminding myself of every perceived flaw.
“I don’t deserve to wear a swimsuit.”
“I’m lumpy and covered in stretch marks.”
“I’m not ready—my legs are hairy, and I haven’t shed the baby weight.”
“I forgot to shave my bikini line.”
“I just don’t belong here.”
“I don’t look good enough.”
These thoughts spiraled until I found myself reaching for my towel, forgetting the joy of being at the pool or beach. I covered up and became a spectator instead of a participant. While I fixated on my insecurities, the confident woman was fully engaged with her children, creating memories that would be cherished forever.
At the start of last summer, I realized how much energy I was wasting on self-doubt and decided it was time for a change. I didn’t want to miss out on precious moments with my kids. I committed to embracing my body as it was, rather than waiting until I fit into a specific size.
So, I took the plunge—I put on my damn swimsuit! All summer long, I wore it at every opportunity. I splashed in the pool with my kids, enjoyed beach days, zipped down water slides, and even bravely tried a pool zip line. I had spent far too long criticizing my body and myself; it was time to celebrate what my body could do.
I realized that my kids wouldn’t remember me for the size of my jeans, but rather for my confidence and love for swimming and for them. The journey to self-love didn’t happen overnight; it requires consistent effort to combat those negative thoughts that have lingered for decades. I had to learn to appreciate my body, granting myself grace and recognizing that I’m doing my best as both a mother and an individual.
I began to question what I truly valued about my body and what I wanted my children to appreciate about theirs. I learned to treat my body with kindness, just as I would for my friends and family. I discovered strength in being active with my kids and found joy in clothes that fit well and made me feel good, rather than fixating on size tags.
It’s essential to nourish ourselves with positive affirmations to counteract the inevitable self-doubt that creeps in. Recently, while on a beach getaway with my partner, I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror while wearing my swimsuit. I noticed the purple stretch marks on my belly glimmering in the sunlight. For a brief moment, I questioned my confidence, but then I reminded myself of my strength and the happiness I felt in that moment.
Later that day, while paddle boarding, my partner remarked, “I love that swimsuit on you.” And you know what? It was the very swimsuit that showcased my stretch marks, but more importantly, it was the one that made me feel empowered and fun.
I refuse to miss out any longer! I’ve stopped comparing myself to other women because I recognize my worth in being exactly who I am. Life is fleeting, and time spent with my kids and partner is invaluable. This summer, I’m committed to swimming and proudly wearing my swimsuit.
So, I encourage you: put on your damn swimsuit! Whether it’s a bikini, a tankini, or a swim shirt, just wear it. Create beautiful memories, stop the comparisons, and embark on the journey of accepting and loving your body.
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Summary
This piece emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and celebrating your body, especially during summer outings with your children. Instead of succumbing to societal pressures and self-criticism, the author advocates for moms to embrace their bodies, wear their swimsuits proudly, and create lasting memories with their kids.