Recently, I have come to a realization about the Body Positive Movement. Put simply, it isn’t as great as people make it out to be. In reality, the movement is detrimental to the physical and mental health of individuals who might feel insecure about their image. In fact, it accomplishes the exact opposite of what the alleged goals are.

The Body Positivity Movement is a movement that focuses on self-love and reforming societal views on body image. BPM’ers believe that all bodies are beautiful just the way they are. In an effort to spread positivity, they promote this message through social media and other platforms.

Although a noble cause, this campaign may prove to be more harmful than helpful. I believe that it is necessary to redefine Body Positivity as a whole, focusing more on motivating individuals to improve themselves rather than pushing for mere acceptance.

Loving yourself is important. I could never expect someone to look in the mirror and sneer in disgust at their appearance. That doesn’t necessarily mean that people should accept something that they can change, though.

I completely understand self-acceptance when it comes to inalterable characteristics. If there’s nothing you can do about it, don’t sweat it. But, if you can do something, go for it! Why would you settle when you have the power to better yourself?

“Love yourself, no matter what you look like” seems to be the motto of this movement. Despite the positivity of this message, there are some very negative consequences that inevitably come with it.

For example, the main target of this movement appears to be those who are considered overweight. If loving yourself means that you shouldn’t do anything to change your body, then this movement is essentially telling those with an unhealthy lifestyle to keep up their bad habits. In case you don’t think that being overweight is a problem, here are some health issues that can result from obesity and weight problems from the CDC.

Now, here’s something that I think has been majorly overlooked concerning this topic: the Body Positivity Movement actually deflates individuals instead of empowering them. The way I see it, this movement is telling people that they don’t have the potential to look the way they want to, so they might as well get comfortable with their appearance.

Apparently, society sets “unrealistic expectations” for what the human body is supposed to look like. Is being trim, toned, and healthy unrealistic? Yes, it can be difficult to make healthy choices, but not impossible. This campaign is demotivating people by telling them that they don’t have the ability to improve. It’s too difficult to look the way you want to and you’ll never be able to do it, so you should just accept yourself and give up. Shouldn’t we be boosting people’s confidence, letting them know that they can look however they want if they’re motivated enough to live a healthier lifestyle? I guess not.

Instead of spouting fake positivity that may have damaging effects or unintended consequences, these organizations should be spreading the message of self-improvement and encouragement. Tell those who are unhappy with their bodies that they are more than capable of achieving their goals. Let them know that if they feel this way, they can gain the confidence they so desperately need and live the life that they desire.

On top of that, provide people with the opportunities to reach these goals. For example, fitness programs, guides to a healthier lifestyle, wellness counselors to offer assistance and reassurance, and in general, a chance for people to help themselves.

Don’t just strive for acceptance, strive for improvement. Don’t tell people that they can’t do something, tell them that they can.

The Body Positivity Movement is going in the wrong direction, and if they really want people to feel good about their appearance, they need to change course. For someone to truly love themselves, they need to look in the mirror and see someone who they want to be, not someone who they can tolerate.