The host introduced me as a “rising TikTok star” and a “symbol of body positivity.”
A few months ago, I was a guest on a podcast. The host introduced me as a “rising TikTok star” and a “symbol of body positivity.” The latter was news to me and I know she meant it as a compliment, but the remark stung. She told me I inspire other women to be confident in their normal, healthy-looking bodies, that I demonstrate how exposed ribs are not a prerequisite to feeling beautiful. On a conscious level, I know this is a good thing. But I think there will always be a part of me that wishes I looked like the women who monopolize my own Instagram and TikTok feeds—sinewy, svelte, smooth, perfect.