Letting Go of the Past
It’s time to part with that ill-fitting dress for good. A recent closet clean-out, particularly of a cherished piece, has significantly impacted my path toward body acceptance.
Written by Jennifer Collins
Updated: Feb. 20, 2024
Originally Published: March 18, 2022
Even after 14 years and two children, I struggled to part with the white lace eyelet dress from my high school graduation. You know the kind of dress that feels just right, the one that flatters your figure and boosts your confidence? That dress once made me feel beautiful—at least, it did back then. But after more than a decade, my body had changed, and the dress no longer brought me joy. Instead, it became a daily reminder of my dissatisfaction with my body.
It wasn’t just that white dress. I held onto clothes that had little sentimental value and new items that lost their appeal once I brought them home. Despite my attempts to find a new little white dress, I was unsuccessful. Rather than returning or donating clothes that didn’t fit me anymore, I tried to change my body to fit the clothes, all while neglecting my pursuit of body acceptance. Spoiler alert: that strategy never worked.
The Journey to Acceptance
My path to body acceptance has often felt like two steps back for every step forward. I would hang up new items I didn’t even love, promising myself I would start a strict diet immediately. Why was I clinging to a dress and purchasing clothes that would never fit the way I wanted? Why hold on so tightly when it only led to unhappiness?
I kept my old clothes under the false impression they would “motivate” me to work out harder. I thought that feeling shame and disappointment would lead to success. Instead, it hindered my ability to accept my body—something that was essential for my well-being.
My journey toward body acceptance wasn’t inspired by trends; it was a crucial part of my recovery from an eating disorder that I battled for years. During that time, I equated excessive exercising and under-eating with strength. I believed my body was only deserving of love and acceptance once it met a certain standard, regardless of the emotional pain that caused me. Accepting my body, even in its imperfect state, has been one of my greatest challenges but also a rewarding experience.
The Impact of Letting Go
I’ll never forget the day I decided to part with that too-small white dress. The relief I felt wasn’t just from donating it; it was a daily relief every time I opened my closet and didn’t see it hanging there. Letting go of clothes that no longer served me also liberated me from the constant negative judgment and pressure I inflicted on myself.
There’s a unique joy in wearing clothes that fit well. Ill-fitting jeans are more than just uncomfortable physically; they can distract you from enjoying life. At the end of the day, no one will remember what size dress you wore. They’ll cherish the moments you shared, the laughter, and the connections.
So, here’s a gentle reminder: let go of what no longer serves you, especially when it comes to clothing that you never truly loved. If you’re looking for more insights on body acceptance and self-love, check out one of our other blog posts here.
Suggested Resources:
For more information on fertility, visit Make a Mom, a trusted source on this topic, or explore this MedlinePlus resource for pregnancy and home insemination guidance.
Leave a Reply