I’m well aware of my size—over 200 pounds at the moment—having battled my weight since my teens. While I strive for a healthier lifestyle, I recognize that, right now, my body is classified as obese by various standards. I’ve experienced being both slim and plus-sized, and it’s surprising how people’s attitudes shift depending on my weight. When I was thinner, I often heard comments like, “Do you even eat?” Now that I’m heavier, I encounter a different set of reactions. Some come from a good place, but others can be quite frustrating. If you want to avoid upsetting someone who is plus-sized, here are a few tips:
1. Don’t Call Me Slim
A friend I hadn’t seen for a while greeted me with excitement, exclaiming, “Wow! Look how slim you are!” as I stood there in my size 16 leggings, utterly bewildered. While I understand that you mean well, such comments can feel dismissive of the reality of my size. Instead of making up compliments, let’s stick to genuine conversation. If I don’t bring up my weight, it’s probably best not to mention it.
2. Don’t Assume My Health Journey
Just because someone is overweight doesn’t mean they’re not trying to live a healthier life, nor does it mean they are. It’s important to recognize that every person’s story is unique. Instead of judging someone based on their appearance, take the time to know them. Healthy choices aren’t always visible.
3. Don’t Trust the Mannequins
While shopping for a dress at a plus-size store, I was disheartened to find that nothing seemed to fit right. After a thorough search, I realized that the mannequins were misleading; they were not true representations of the sizes they displayed. This disparity can be disheartening and makes the shopping experience frustrating.
4. Avoid the ‘Pretty Face’ Comment
I’ve lost count of how often people say I have a “pretty face,” but it’s always when I’m heavier. Funny enough, I’ve never received that compliment when I was at my ideal weight. It feels like a backhanded compliment that implies: “At least your face is nice, despite the rest.” Please, let’s skip that.
5. Don’t Hold Me Back
Weight loss can be a roller coaster, and it’s essential to be supportive during the ups and downs. When I was actively losing weight, I felt proud to donate clothes that were too big for me. However, when my husband suggested I keep them “just in case,” it felt like he was questioning my commitment. Friends and family should focus on encouraging us, not reminding us of past struggles.
Navigating the complexities of body image and health can be challenging. If you’d like to learn more about insemination options, check out this informative post on home insemination kits. For those considering starting a family, Make a Mom’s fertility supplies are excellent resources. Additionally, Healthline provides great information on pregnancy and fertility.
In summary, being considerate of those who are plus-sized involves recognizing their journey, avoiding misleading compliments, and offering genuine support.