In today's world, where social and traditional media set unrealistic beauty standards, promoting body positivity has become more important than ever before. Body positivity has become an essential aspect of promoting self-love and acceptance, which are crucial for our mental and emotional well-being. And now, millennials and GenZ can explore plenty of career paths that focus on just that. So let's dive into some fun and rewarding career options, if you’re looking to make a difference:
1. Body Positive Models
The fashion industry has finally become more inclusive, with body positive models now taking the ramp and screens by storm, challenging traditional beauty standards. Plus-size models promote body positivity and self-love by showcasing that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, which helps people feel more confident about their bodies and reduces the pressure to conform to traditional beauty standards. It's inspiring to see plus-size models showcase their curves and embrace their bodies, regardless of their size.
2. Fashion designer
You can become a fashion designer who creates clothing lines that are inclusive of all body types and sizes. Design clothes that are comfortable, flattering and stylish for individuals of all shapes and sizes. As a body-positive fashion designer, you can also advocate for inclusivity in the fashion industry by showcasing diverse models and promoting body diversity in advertising campaigns.
3. Social media influencer/Blogger
When social media influencers talk, millions listen. So social media influencers and bloggers have a huge responsibility to be careful of what they say. They can play a significant role in promoting body positivity through their online presence. Influencers can share personal stories about their own struggles, which can help others, who may be going through the same, feel less alone and more empowered to accept their bodies.
4. Intuitive eating counsellors and non-diet dieticians
Intuitive eating counsellors and non-diet dietitians focus on promoting overall health and well-being, rather than just weight loss, which can be a refreshing change from the diet culture that currently dominates our society. They promote body positivity by encouraging individuals to let go of the shame and guilt associated with food. Intuitive eating and non-diet approaches reject this mentality and instead, promote a balanced approach to eating, where all foods can fit within a healthy diet.
5. Flow artists
By encouraging people to explore movement in a non-judgmental and supportive environment, flow artists can help individuals develop a more positive relationship with their bodies. This can involve providing a diverse range of equipment, music and movement styles that are accessible to people of different abilities and backgrounds. By creating an environment where people feel safe and comfortable to explore movement in their own bodies, flow artists can help to foster a sense of confidence and empowerment.
6. Choreographer
Choreographers can create dance routines that showcase a diverse range of body types, shapes, sizes and abilities. This can help challenge the narrow beauty standards that are often portrayed in mainstream media.
7. Fitness instructor/Trainer
Fitness instructors and trainers can promote body positivity by creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for their clients. They can focus on helping clients achieve their fitness goals, without promoting a specific body type or shape. They can also educate clients on the importance of listening to their bodies and engaging in activities that bring them joy.
8. Makeup Artist
Makeup artists can use their skills to enhance and highlight the natural beauty of their clients, rather than trying to fit them into conventional beauty standards. They can use makeup to accentuate the features that their clients love about themselves, instead of covering up ‘perceived flaws’. They should also make sure to not use language that is negative, discriminatory or derogatory towards different body types or features, and rather use empowering language that will encourage confidence.
Promoting body positivity is crucial in our society today. Whether you're interested in fashion, fitness, mental health, or education, there are plenty of career paths available for individuals who want to make a positive impact on those struggling with body image issues. So choose a career that speaks to you and start promoting body positivity and self-love in your own way.