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Nose size, skin tone, eye color, face shape, and bone structure. All of these features differentiate us from our basic physical similarities.

The exposure to societally-accepted beauty standards has overshadowed the empowerment found in originality. It has expanded the common want to change and adjust, rather than the genuine need to accentuate and embrace. Now is the moment to welcome in the strength attached to one’s quirks and distinctions. The attributes that isolate from conformity should be valued and acknowledged. Our self-image is corrupted through the influencing media presence. Social media has transformed our way of virtually connecting into a way to virtually compete through appearances. Acceptance is being searched for in the opinions of others, when the true location lies within one’s self. Instead of taking charge of our own self-esteem, we allow ourselves to use comparisons to determine how we feel about the reflection in the mirror. We forget to protect our temple from our own opinions.

Affirm your own beauty through lack of judgment and self-love. Happiness will never be discovered in a disconnected illusion of self. Happiness lies in the satisfaction of having a crooked nose, protruding chin, skinny lips, or round cheeks. When you decide these qualities only further accent attractiveness, you decide to encourage your own body positivity, as well as open-minded individuality.

Find a way to speak positivity upon your own unusual uniqueness everyday until it begins to flow naturally. Truly notice the specific aspects that make you uncomfortable due to their authenticity and attempt to look at them in a new perspective. Take the time to view yourself for who you are and express gratitude for the exceptional appearance assigned to you.

Watch as you transform into a confidently, grounded being who appreciates the eccentricities of the unconventional.

STYLIST: CARSON MILLER PHOTOGRAPHER: JOSEPH NOLL WRITER: PAYTON BROWN MODELS: ANTHONY BURTON, JORDAN CARTER, JENNY VONG MAKEUP: ARIEL HAYES, GABBY LEAKE