Who Defines the Word 'Normal'?

Whenever I hear someone say, "I'm not normal" I cringe. This reaction stems from the sadness I get knowing why people say that. Everyday we constantly compare ourselves to the people we work with, the people we see on the street and the "people" we see on TV. Let me remind you..the ones on TV are called characters because they are not living real lives. If you watch reality TV, there's a spin on it and almost always there are scenes cut out.

Everyone is unique and I like to say strange in our own way. There isn't a single person on the planet that is exactly like you or me. Now, there are people who share similar views, like the same things or even look alike but all in all we are different. This is a good thing! If everyone was exactly like me, the world would be boring!

I have to remind myself all the time to stop comparing myself to others because once I go down that path, my life crumbles and I surrender to the tears that fall. Looking at my friends' lives or even just people I know, they look so happy all the time and so perfect. If you ask them, you might get a different story. I would venture to say that most people don't air out their dirty laundry on social media. They may even hide that from their family and friends. Social media is where people expose the awesome parts of their lives. So the next time you start feeling bad about yourself, STOP and think about the amazing things you've done. Everyone has a different path, explore yours and tell the world about it!

So what is "normal'? You define it.

Makeup

I've read in girl/women magazines that many men prefer girls without makeup because it shows the real "you". When I was younger, in high school, I used to think that was silly. So many celebrities look so much better with makeup and in fact look dreadful without it. Now, post college, I realize why seeing the real person is so much more appealing.

Personally, I still feel like I don't look pretty without makeup, but I've been proven wrong on many occasions. Guys have hit on me, given me their number and called me 'beautiful lady' when I've been without "beautification" on my face while wearing sweatpants. To me I look boring or give the message that I don't care about how I look. I do care, maybe not as much as some people who cake themselves all over, but I do want to look good when I leave the house. Everyone should.

On the opposite side of the coin however, if putting makeup on is the only way you feel beautiful, something's wrong. You choose to be beautiful. Now, I know we all hate the phrase "Be beautiful on the inside" but in reality being beautiful on the inside counts for something too. In my life, I split the attention between the inside and the outside so that both are being treated right. I do my best to be kind, loving and respectful towards others while at the same time I make sure I look my best. I don't spend a ton of money (though there are times when my favorite stores have awesome sales), but will spend it on items that will enhance my inner light :)

Love yourself both inside and out and don't succumb to the pressure of needing makeup to be beautiful!