For the longest time I always thought “pretty” was a good compliment, regardless of who it came from. The older I get, I’ve begun to realize that “pretty” isn’t always the word I want someone to define me as. There are so many more words I would rather be called that emphasizes the more important qualities I have within myself.
“The Pretty Challenge” is a positive movement where women pick 20-30 words they would like someone to refer to them as, or what they see themselves as instead of just “pretty.” I’ve seen a few other women’s lists, so I decided to create my own. Instead of “pretty,” I would rather be called:
Confident: I am self-assured in myself and happy with who I am.
Humble: I’m aware of things that make me great, but I don’t express it in a strong way.
Loyal: If I know you, consider yourself lucky, because once you’re in my heart, you’re not leaving. I will stand by you until the end.
Polite: Manners get you a long way in life and everyone will remember the person who over uses “please” and “thank you.”
Loving: I have a big heart and I love to show it to people, even if it hurts me in the long run.
Proud: I’m proud of who I am, where I’ve come from, and where I’m going to be one day.
Kind: I am friendly, generous, and considerate, and there’s no way I’d rather be.
Realistic: There’s no problem with dreaming, but I refuse to get lost in a fantasy and forget the reality I’m living.
Intelligent: I have an extensive knowledge about some subjects, however I’m still learning.
Positive: I’m all about the good things in life.
Authentic: I take pride in being extremely open, honest and raw. What you see is what you get and I’m not changing for anyone.
Appreciative: I’m always beyond thankful for small gestures and the unimaginable ones.
Passionate: With everything I do, my heart explodes with an undeniable passion that’s accompanied by happiness.
Sensitive: I am a sensitive soul who can take things to heart and I don’t see it as being a bad thing.
Emotional: I wear my heart on my sleeve and am not afraid to be vulnerable with my emotions.
Hysterical: I’m a goofy individual and I have a great sense of humor.
Non-judgmental: I do not believe in judging someone for how they feel, their past or their decisions, and I accept you regardless of the fact.
Beautiful: Being called beautiful is more effective and meaningful than being called “pretty” or “sexy.”
Genuine: When I speak, I mean what I say.
Happy: I love the overwhelming feeling of joy at any given moment. I think I look best with a smile on my face.
At the end of the day, there are hundreds of other words to describe someone, and it’s those definitions that help make up who we are. This exercise was very reassuring and really made me think about the positive qualities about myself I truly enjoy and that hopefully others can agree with. It’s quite challenging to think of 20 words you’d rather be known as besides “pretty,” but once you have your list, it will improve your confidence and help you realize you’re more than someone with a “pretty face.” It’s what’s on the inside that makes you pretty, not your appearance.
Featured image via Joshua Rawson-Harris on Unsplash
