Love love love what you said about knocking another body type. I'm naturally thin, couldn't gain weight even when I tried. It was rough when I was younger bc in my culture being thin isn't considered beautiful but I learned to embrace and celebrate my body as is. Kudos for reminding people of that.
the same struggle here :) but learned to love myself and I like the way I can dress up, because I 'm skinny :) It was a long and hard wokr until I started to accept as it is but now I feel confident and this is what makes everybody pretty; confidence, intelligence and kindness, not the big boobs or butt (don't want to offend anyone, just talking about my point of view)
i am also in the same boat with u dear, i have tried in every way to add a bit of weight, i eat a lot, but still remain the same, but i have learnt to accept myself the way i am. thnx shirley for the wonderful vids.
Hello my fellow skinny girls!!! We need to start our own support group lol because I used to feel the same way about being the only one because I was the only one.
I remember Tyra Banks said she doesn't look like Tyra Banks on the magazine!! Ladies love every bit of yourself!! Celebrate your 'flaws' and love YOU!! Great video much needed!!
I went through anorexia and some schoolmates of mine are struggling due to the same old problem. I won over that terrible monster thanks to an enormous will that I had and that I have stronger now, but they are really borderline. I'm gonna send them the link to this awesome video because you put on focus things that I understood after AGES and that made me proud of what I am (button nose included!), hoping that this video can make an huge difference with them. Thanks for this video, from the deepest of my teenage yet sensitive heart
I can't tell you how much I needed this. Not because I needed the confidence boost but I needed my faith in people with positions of power restored. Yesterday I watched a video in which a youtuber with millions of subscribers essentially told her viewers to modify themselves because everyone else does. She told them to reinforce the status quo instead of telling them to learn to love themselves and be proud of themselves. Thank you so much for this Shirley, I know this is going to help a lot of people.
Who did that/what video? I totally agree though, Shirley seems above and beyond a lot of other youtubers but I think maybe it's because she appeals to a mature audience as well. I'm 23 and can really connect with her content.
I didn't think it was possible, but I love you even more after watching this video. You come across as so personable and lovely (even though you normally do), but it was so great getting this pep talk from the sister I never had. Cheesy but true. Thanks!
Right on time as always ma'am! I used to be skinny minnie all my life until i got into college and gained weight and filled out a bit. Trying to get used to a new body was a bit challenging and some family even told me I was fat because of how they were used to seeing me, but me having hips and butt made me embrace the new me. Curves are curves and I love me. This vid just boosted me more. Love it Shirley!
Beautiful video! Just wanted to add that although diet is a tricky and often sensitive subject it can help tremendously in feeling good about yourself! After battling an eating disorder for years I decided to try a vegetarian diet and it has done wonders for my mental health- not only did it cure my eating disorder, but it also helped me build compassion for others through the food I eat. I have found that by putting positive foods in me I am able to feel spectacular and radiate it on the outside. I am in no way saying that vegetarianism is the way to go, but simply advocating for feeding yourself in a kind way that works for your lifestyle and does not push you to any extreme! :) Vegetarian for nearly five years now and never looking back!
"who does she think she is?" "she obviously thinks she is her!" LOL YES SHIRLEY YES! More minds need to think alike. Insecurity must be eradicated. Bravo.
This really touched me.. I almost wanna sit down and have a heart to heart with you about my experiences because you just seem so genuine and relatable and so so uplifting ♥️
I never really thought of the affect "skinny bashing" can have on skinny girls... I guess it is because outwardly they seem like they have it all. When truly I suppose they have the same insecurities as every other person. Thank you for the enlightenment, and kudos for always delivering videos with quality, substance, and awesomeness. I appreciate your dedication.
I really loved this video. I'm naturally skinny and I'm 28 years old. I've struggled so much trying to gain weight so I could look more like an adult instead of a teenager. People can be so rude... I can't count the number of times people have asked me do I eat. The bad thing is I eat more than the average person. This video made me see that what those people think does not matter. I am my own beautiful. I'm inspired every time I watch your videos. Thank you so much for your positivity and encouraging words.
Shirley, you are so inspiring. I'm 5ft2 or a little under and have always been remarked upon my height. There are no other 3 words I dread more than "you're so short!". People need to realise that the smallest things can really effect someone's confidence, especially when you hear the same comment over and over again. The same goes for how I have porcelain skin. Frankly, I don't want to change. I love being tiny and I love having skin like Snow White. Who cares if I'm not perfect to society, I'm perfect for myself and that'd what matters most! :) xx
Believe me the same people that were making fun of u in hs won't prosper in life. Its all about karma. If it's not about blessing it doesn't make any sense.
The people teasing you are the most insecure, and misery loves company. Don't join them. Everytime someone teases you, compliment someone else that you think needs a bit of a boost. Making someone else smile will make you happy. By the way, if that's you in the profile pic, you are stunning.
When you are a teenager, you think more negativity about your image and confidence. I was so insecure about my acne scars, and other scars on my face. I hated my stretch marks and I didn't like my teeth. Now, I just embrace my flaws.
Nowadays its all about curvy and thick women and people are soooo hateful towards us skinny girls :( I wish people would just appreciate all body types. We're all built differently and we are all beautiful!
Thank you so much for this. I wish I'd had this advice at a much younger age. I'd like to add "younger" to your list. Somehow being older than 25 is a crime in many people's minds. Age happens to everyone. Pressure to look "young" is as bad as pressure to be pretty, thin, hairless or fashionably dressed. Thanks for the food for thought. xox
This video has helped me so much Shirley! I used to have such great confidence, but due to somebody at school who on various occassions pointed out my flaws to me, now I have very little confidence. I'm very self-conscious when I'm around people and always think that everyone is looking at my flaws - their probably not but I still usually feel like this. This video has really helped me and I hope I can grab my confidence back and not think that I have to look perfect 24/7 ♥
Don't give ear to such people if all they can do is find the imperfections about you. Remember this every moment some1 tries to degrade you "No one has it all/no one is perfect". Also want to add that sometimes you might look at people and wish you were like them but u will be surprised at the many imperfections/problems going on for those people. So keep your confidence high regardless of who says or thinks anything "they are not god neither are they perfect.
this video made my heart SO HAPPY! i have Hashimoto disease so i AM incapable of gaining weight despite what diet/exercise routine i take on! i eat more than most boys i know...eating is actually one of my FAVORITE pastimes lol but with this I'm also scared to start my youtube channel/vlog because of the judgement I'm sure ill receive but i plan on watching this video a few more times to gain strength! so PLEASE continue to be real and honest and make videos like this! :)
OMG! Your skinny comment is right on point! For years I've had to walk on eggshells whenever the 'fat' topic came up. We try to censor our comments about 'fat' people yet for some reason, it seems okay to bash skinny people. I've always been skinny and NO, I don't have an eating disorder. Still, it seems to be a crime being skinny...esp in the black community (I've noticed) and by extension, Jamaica. You have to be thick to be seen as healthy. Sad.
I agree! Self confidence isn't something that one is born with, it is something that we have to constantly work towards achieving. Confidence has become an essential part of surviving in today's times when every second person you meet seems more confident than you are.
This video really encouraged me this morning! I struggle badly with body image. Everyday I am consumed by negative thoughts about my body, my skin, my hair, etc. But hearing you talk about your flaws (which are very realistic and commom) really helped me to realize that no one is perfect! I always look at you and other beauty gurus and think, "God, she's perfect. She is so beautiful and seems to have it all together." Sometimes I have to remind myself that you all are human too! Thanks for the inspiration and encouragement. I love your channel and I can't wait to share this video with my friends.
really inspiring video! can you do a video on girl issues like waxing and stuff, maybe a personal hygene video on how to always stay looking fresh(cause we all get sweaty) lol xx
I watched this video while Getting Ready for bed in the bathroom. Now After watching it i am sitting on my bathroom floor....And i am really emotional and Really close to Tears. This video is soo good and so Important and so true. Thank You so much. I needed something like this. Best wishes from Germany 🌷🌺🍀💓
shirley ! thank you soooo much for touching on society praising one body type and shaming the other ! its ridiculous ! we (skinny, thin, thick, fat) can all love ourselves without downing the other ! much love !
seriously, woman how you manage to look sophisticated in a tank top is beyond me... kudos for this video ! This is what lots of women need to hear specially the part about knocking another body type down ! I loved it !
Shirley a seperate message for you. Thank you for making this video. You've encouraged me to keep loving myself. You're a beautiful women inside and out. I like when I see you on my subscriptions. Keep inspiring! God bless you :) oxoxo
I'm a girl overcoming both BDD and manic personality disorder. I find this video very very inspiring and thank you so much for making it! I'm at the stage already in my 'mental transformation' in which I'm beginning to gain confidence again and to accept both my outer looks and inner mind. Hearing your take on what people think and what you should think about yourself was cool, because it matches how I've been thinking recently as well. Thanks beautiful! I think your face is gorgeous ^-^
Thank you so much Shirley. I really needed this. Am not the type of person to feel bad for myself or have a really low self image but when you have people who are supposed to love you intentionally trying their best to beat you down and make you feel bad about yourself, it's seem impossible to keep your head high. I actually cried myself to sleep last night cos I thought I needed it. I needed to let everything go and just be strong. Thanks for your encouraging words and your reassurance.
I definitely needed to hear this today! I'm a worrywart (hair, complexion, weight, smell, health, height, personality) and I'm always doing the comparison thing. I, unfortunately, learned these negative thinking patterns from my mother. It's been way more challenging than I realized to break out of it, but vids like this help. Women like you help. Sharing positive and kind words between each other does wonders! xoxo
thank you so much for this advice, i will be going to an exhibition in 4 days and i'm already having anxiety about the way i will look in my dresses with body image and now hearing this make me not caring of what others think of me... Thank you Shirley, kiss from Switzerland
Great video! I agree with you when you said how some bigger girls bash naturally skinny girls. It's still discrimination regardless, what's life without variation and variety. We should all appreciate that people come in all shapes and sizes it makes life interesting.
I don't think I've ever took the time to comment on your videos (though i appreciate you) but this is just so well done and said. Usual videos about self esteem and body image when done by youtubers are usually so cheesy and cliche. The first point you talked about may seem basic to you but I think it's the most important one. Girls are not here to look pretty. I was not put on this earth to look desirable for you. Men who don't even know you will feel they have a right to judge your physique like, who do you even think you are? It's very very important to realize you don't owe anything to anyone. Not your parents, not your friends, no one. Not a damn thing. Appreciate what God gave you and learn to love yourself. People's disappointment in your looks concerns them, not YOU !
Thank you so much this video has literally changed my life in so many ways I no longer worry about my body image ever after living in constant worry and checking th mirror every 5-10 minutes . Thank you so much I owe you so much xx I honestly can't thank you enough
Great vid as always girl! I would love to see a video based on your opinions of "video vixens" aka video girls... Just how the industry wants girls to look a certain way especially the cultural aspect of it i.e girls getting illegal butt shots and the booty/waist ratio (waist training fad) this image is becoming the norm but I think to the every day girl these kind of images are quite damaging. Sorry If I sound like I'm rambling! But I would love to hear your opinion as I respect your views as a woman! Lots of love - a fellow Londoner x
I've had self-confidence issues for YEARS about pretty much everything about me and I believe that this video may have changed all of that. Thank you! Stay beautiful, Girl! ;)
You rung a huge bell when you said: "You don't owe anyone pretty". As a female society seems to think all women owe them pretty. For example, Michelle Obama, Angela Merkle, Hilary Clinton are all smart powerful women, yet what does the media concentrate on? Their appearance. People rarely mention John Biden, Richard Branson or Bill Gates looks. If I get a complement, fantastic and if I don't, well I'm not a model so being beautiful is not my job- the majority of the population aren't models, so why strive for that? We are more than our looks, appearance is just a shell that eventually cracks.
I can't say much more than thank you for making this video. There aren't enough confident, humble, and easy going people around these days. This is a great way to spread the word and do something positive for our well being as a species.
I loved this video! For someone struggling with her own body image issues its so inspiring to see you encouraging people to find the best in themselves and then strive to be healthier! I forget that beauty comes in so many different shapes, colors and sizes! Thank u!
This was such an inspiring and positive video to watch. As a person who grew up being chubby and getting bullied, the images of those times rushed back to me. Even after I lost the weight people still judged me for what I used to look like, which made me upset. But after a while, I realized how shallow those people were and that I was happy so the amount of friends I have or how popular I am means nothing. It's just a mere phase of my whole life. You are such a beautiful person and I hope that more people will follow in your footsteps of being a role model 😘 Much love sista! ❤️
Shirley B. Eniang "And pay no mind to those people who always say things like...'oh who does she think she is?' I mean, who does she think she is? She's gonna obviously gonna think that she is her. Do you want her to think that she is you? Probably not." Love that quote from you.
I honestly teared up a bit, you're so positive I hope to be like you one day. What I love most is the fact that this wasn't targeted to only thick girls, but to ALL girls which is something people need to realise more often, because everyone feels insecure at some point. Thank you for this amazing video, you are by far my favourite TH-camr of all. Oh, and one question if you don't mind me asking, how old are you?
No... Its always the girls that are nearly perfect that talk about having confident. Like her skin in clear, white teeth, perfect makeup. Maybe her lips or body could possibly be something she thinks is a flaw but 4real, people would kill to have her body and lips naturally. She is nearly perfect (physically because idk about her personal life)
kiasmn Exactly. I've noticed this with alot of TH-cam gurus these days. I think they're trying to be more 'relatable'. But they don't understand that it's always easier to be confident when you look close to societies idea of perfection lol.
***** By society's standards, she is nearly perfect so its easier for her to talk about having confidence. I'm not saying she is perfect, im saying from what media shows and and how we were taught, she is "nearly" perfect. its easy for her to try and give advice when she hasn't gone thru it
Focus on the advice she's giving and not her physic. In a lot of her advice videos she stresses on how its important to work on your inner self and personality, think of the phrase beauty comes from within. She's admitted herself that she wasn't the most attractive looking person when she was younger but she's grown into herself with time. If you feel good on the inside you develop the confidence to rock new looks on yourself. You take better care of your body and doing that in turn makes you feel beautiful. Yes its true some people may be born with more attractive features than others but are you really gonna keep putting yourself down for the rest of your like coz of that? Just roll with it and celebrate your own qualities. We don't know her life so we can't say she's had it easy and even if she has then good for her
Thanks for sharing! I had great success losing weight last summer but it a plateau late last year and it's been hell trying to get back to where I was. I've gained back 10 of the 35 pounds I lost, and have been really hard on myself of late. Seeing the "be good to your mind" part makes me realize of much my own thoughts now have changed from where I was. I focused a lot on letting all aspects of negativity go back then, and somehow let it creep back in. Done with that and off to the gym! Thanks Shirley. Also I think your big lips are gorgeous :)
What an amazing video! I am naturally thin & petite. I've constantly been told that I need to eat! What helps me get through situations like that is to consider the source & recognize that if someone feels the need to be offensive toward me & my body type, they're obviously not happy with themselves.
The last point was peferect! Looking after my mind and constantly feeding myself with positivity has helped me overcome mild depression over the years. This video was really beneficial xx
Thank you for this so much!! I'm striving so hard to be confident, I've never been able to be confident as I've grown up in an abusive household that taught confidence was whorish and negative. My mother fell to my fathers manipulation and I thought living this way was normal up until my dad disowned me at 13. As a 17 year old with severe anxiety and insecurity issues your videos are quite inspiring and I very much so appreciate you for doing what you do.
Shirley, I really appreciate that you are one of the few youtubers who make this kind of videos, thank you for being very confident with us, showing what type of person you are! xoxo
Needed to hear this and didn't even know it. People keep saying that I'm skinny but the thing is I'm naturally skinny and I happen to like how I look. Thank you for sharing Shirley !
Shirley ... This is by far the BEST body/self confidence video I have seen! Thank you! And also ... So happy that you celebrate and love you! You are incredibly beautiful and seem like a wonderful person. Wish you the best! 😄
Yeah girl! I find that ignoring the negativity is in the end the best avenue to follow, although common is the belief that it's easier said than done! Thanks for sharing girl! Kisses
Just came back to watch this video again (it's in my likes) and I was blown away all over again. It is so nice to see people talking about themselves in a nurturing way! You are brilliant and have such a strong voice that's carried to so many people and I hope that you are very very proud of yourself and what you do.
You just received a new subscriber. I’ve only watched this video of you and now I’m preparing myself to watch every single one of your videos right now. You’re beautiful and inspirational. This video has helped me so much.
I love it Shirley! I especially like the part where you touch on the contradiction of putting down one body type and praising another. God made sooo many types of "beautiful" and the sooner we all realize that the better we become.
Sometimes you just need to take a break and think about whats really important in your life, which is your own happiness. Thank you Shirley! That was very inspiring and thoughtful! Love you x
This has been really inspirational. I have A LOT of body issues, and this has been really eye opening. It's great to know there are caring people like you out there. thank you.
I love the message you give through this video. Especially celebrating your look and what you have part. Living in Korea, where the beauty standard is so narrow, it is very easy to turn to plastic surgery as the ultimate solution to body image issues. I used to make plans for getting my nose done, cutting my cheekbones, get liposuction when I was in highschool just like any other girls. But I grew to love my face and bodyshape as they are when I went to university and that made me comfortable and confident which led to less worries and stress for me and also others being attracted to me more..? Figuring that out, now I am sad to see so many teens going through plastic surgery because they think they are too ugly to handle. I wish many viewers watch your video and grow to have positive mindset! (I hope you understood what I wanted to say. English is not my first language...)
This video is spot on. Especially, about thick vs thin. I can't how either or is supposed to be better. Health is what should be promoted. You should be able to compliment others without it taking away from who you are. And your self-confidence should never become arrogance.
Shirley you just spoke sooo much truth in this video! As someone who has come a long way from unhealthy eating habits, low confidence and anxiety this spoke a lot to me. Thank you for sharing with us, sharing is caring ^_^ xx
Thank you so much for this video hun! There was one thing I use to hear growing up was that "I was pretty for a dark skinned girl" I had no idea what that meant until now that I am older but I ignored it then and I do now some people are so ignorant smh
This is the first time I came across one of your videos. As someone who has had really sad experiences with my image (from bullying to random strangers picking on me or making not so hushed comments about my face as I pass by) I feel really, really grateful for the things you said here. I don't know if they will change my life, but surely brightened a few minutes of it :) subscribed!!
Thankyou! I'm lacking a lot of confidence and think daily on things I would love to change about myself. I have realised that I need to change the way I think and the other stuff will follow x
Thank you for this video! Body shaming against "bigger girls" or "smaller girls" as whats perceived by other people as whats suppose to be is not okay. What you said was eloquent. And something i felt like was stood up for with naturally skinny girls as well.Both. We are all human and beautiful in our own right.
To be honest, i was kind of unsure about watching this video in the beginning because I was worried it might trigger me, but im so so so happy I did. Shirley, every new video you put out just makes me happier and makes me see how much of an amazing person you are and just.. wow. this is such an important topic and its so great that you are using your platform to spread all these messages. truly. only one thing i would like to say though: you (not only you specifically, but 'you' in general) shouldnt refer to stretch marks or spots or pigmentation or cellulite of any of that stuff as flaws. because they're not. they're perfectly normal; many many people have them, of varying body types, and it might be offensive to call them flaws, even if thats what they are by society's beauty standards. anyways, i just wanted to say thank you thank you thank you
I love all you said. Especially when you said you were hairy. I can relate. I have hair in those same areas. Also I have skin blemishs due to some ingrown hairs. I get down on myself because of that. Every two weeks wax and back to cover up with the makeup. It's a little extra work now, until I get my skin in order. Blemishes are starting to clear up some. Like you said, if you don't like something, work on it. That's what we all need to do. Instead of getting upset, and taking our anger out on someone else because they don't have the flaws we do. Our physical as well as our mental is all a working progress. Thank for your video.
OMG Shirley, I feel like you dreamt of me before doing this video. This was much needed. I was being bullied for the longest because I'm African and you know my classmates felt like being American makes you so much cooler of a person. It was hard for to deal with and it took me years to get over it. The way I dealt with the situation was, I just focused on the people who genuinely cared about me and I'm an even stronger person because of those challenges I faced in school. Thank you for this video xoxo
Yes Shirley!!! I absolutely love this video I know it shall speak and touch so many. It is so annoying how people and society dictate what is attractive and how many people feel a way because they don't fit this mold. Love yourself is what you are preaching and you are so right!
SHIRLEY!! Thank you so much for this video. I just started a TH-cam channel with my sister, and its sometimes hard getting over how I view myself. We are so hard on ourselves for no reason at all. It has taken me a while to love myself and be confident in the body I was born with. Thank you for the reminders. Much love from Toronto xoxo
I usually never comment but you and this little pep talk deserve it. You touched all important topics and used amazing inspiring words, I think this is probably one of the best videos I've seen in a long time. Thank you! Let's just all love our beautiful minds and bodies, it is a long journey but we can all make it.
thank you so much for this video we all tend to forget the good things we have and get carried away with the media everyone has issues still learning to love myself .. but it gets easier the older we get!
If you ever publish a book I'll be the FIRST to buy it.
Yesss!! I would too the way she speaks ,I love it . I could just watch a video of her just talking (lol like this)
Love love love what you said about knocking another body type.
I'm naturally thin, couldn't gain weight even when I tried. It was rough when I was younger bc in my culture being thin isn't considered beautiful but I learned to embrace and celebrate my body as is.
Kudos for reminding people of that.
the same struggle here :) but learned to love myself and I like the way I can dress up, because I 'm skinny :) It was a long and hard wokr until I started to accept as it is but now I feel confident and this is what makes everybody pretty; confidence, intelligence and kindness, not the big boobs or butt (don't want to offend anyone, just talking about my point of view)
i am also in the same boat with u dear, i have tried in every way to add a bit of weight, i eat a lot, but still remain the same, but i have learnt to accept myself the way i am. thnx shirley for the wonderful vids.
KibibiHair I thought I was the only one that had an issue being the typical "black girl"... love this
Hello my fellow skinny girls!!! We need to start our own support group lol because I used to feel the same way about being the only one because I was the only one.
KibibiHair another "skinny" girl here haha. Great vid Shirley!
I remember Tyra Banks said she doesn't look like Tyra Banks on the magazine!! Ladies love every bit of yourself!! Celebrate your 'flaws' and love YOU!! Great video much needed!!
I love how she talks with her hands!
Right? She needs to be a TV presenter!
She's so cute
I went through anorexia and some schoolmates of mine are struggling due to the same old problem. I won over that terrible monster thanks to an enormous will that I had and that I have stronger now, but they are really borderline.
I'm gonna send them the link to this awesome video because you put on focus things that I understood after AGES and that made me proud of what I am (button nose included!), hoping that this video can make an huge difference with them.
Thanks for this video, from the deepest of my teenage yet sensitive heart
So happy for you!!! I hope so too! Thank you lovely! xx
Exactly the same for me
:) even bad times define us as good, positive and unique people! Thank you again Shirley xoxo
exactly :)
+Martina Drago
I can't tell you how much I needed this. Not because I needed the confidence boost but I needed my faith in people with positions of power restored. Yesterday I watched a video in which a youtuber with millions of subscribers essentially told her viewers to modify themselves because everyone else does. She told them to reinforce the status quo instead of telling them to learn to love themselves and be proud of themselves. Thank you so much for this Shirley, I know this is going to help a lot of people.
Who did that/what video? I totally agree though, Shirley seems above and beyond a lot of other youtubers but I think maybe it's because she appeals to a mature audience as well. I'm 23 and can really connect with her content.
I didn't think it was possible, but I love you even more after watching this video. You come across as so personable and lovely (even though you normally do), but it was so great getting this pep talk from the sister I never had. Cheesy but true. Thanks!
Right on time as always ma'am! I used to be skinny minnie all my life until i got into college and gained weight and filled out a bit. Trying to get used to a new body was a bit challenging and some family even told me I was fat because of how they were used to seeing me, but me having hips and butt made me embrace the new me. Curves are curves and I love me. This vid just boosted me more. Love it Shirley!
Beautiful video! Just wanted to add that although diet is a tricky and often sensitive subject it can help tremendously in feeling good about yourself! After battling an eating disorder for years I decided to try a vegetarian diet and it has done wonders for my mental health- not only did it cure my eating disorder, but it also helped me build compassion for others through the food I eat. I have found that by putting positive foods in me I am able to feel spectacular and radiate it on the outside. I am in no way saying that vegetarianism is the way to go, but simply advocating for feeding yourself in a kind way that works for your lifestyle and does not push you to any extreme! :) Vegetarian for nearly five years now and never looking back!
I'm glad that it worked out well for you! xx
"who does she think she is?" "she obviously thinks she is her!" LOL YES SHIRLEY YES! More minds need to think alike. Insecurity must be eradicated. Bravo.
This really touched me.. I almost wanna sit down and have a heart to heart with you about my experiences because you just seem so genuine and relatable and so so uplifting ♥️
I never really thought of the affect "skinny bashing" can have on skinny girls... I guess it is because outwardly they seem like they have it all. When truly I suppose they have the same insecurities as every other person. Thank you for the enlightenment, and kudos for always delivering videos with quality, substance, and awesomeness. I appreciate your dedication.
I really loved this video. I'm naturally skinny and I'm 28 years old. I've struggled so much trying to gain weight so I could look more like an adult instead of a teenager. People can be so rude... I can't count the number of times people have asked me do I eat. The bad thing is I eat more than the average person. This video made me see that what those people think does not matter. I am my own beautiful. I'm inspired every time I watch your videos. Thank you so much for your positivity and encouraging words.
You're actually blessed, some of us bloat when we just smell food 😂
Shirley, you are so inspiring. I'm 5ft2 or a little under and have always been remarked upon my height. There are no other 3 words I dread more than "you're so short!". People need to realise that the smallest things can really effect someone's confidence, especially when you hear the same comment over and over again. The same goes for how I have porcelain skin. Frankly, I don't want to change. I love being tiny and I love having skin like Snow White. Who cares if I'm not perfect to society, I'm perfect for myself and that'd what matters most! :) xx
Shirley !! Thank you so much for this video - it's especially hard in high school but this is very inspiring
Keep your head up hun, I know how hard it is in High School, but you'll get through it! :) x
Believe me the same people that were making fun of u in hs won't prosper in life. Its all about karma. If it's not about blessing it doesn't make any sense.
The people teasing you are the most insecure, and misery loves company. Don't join them. Everytime someone teases you, compliment someone else that you think needs a bit of a boost. Making someone else smile will make you happy. By the way, if that's you in the profile pic, you are stunning.
ur stunning, every beautiful flower takes it own time to bloom.... xxx
When you are a teenager, you think more negativity about your image and confidence. I was so insecure about my acne scars, and other scars on my face. I hated my stretch marks and I didn't like my teeth. Now, I just embrace my flaws.
+Saran2701 I love me now lol
Nowadays its all about curvy and thick women and people are soooo hateful towards us skinny girls :( I wish people would just appreciate all body types. We're all built differently and we are all beautiful!
Exactly!!!! 😭
Thank you so much for this. I wish I'd had this advice at a much younger age. I'd like to add "younger" to your list. Somehow being older than 25 is a crime in many people's minds. Age happens to everyone. Pressure to look "young" is as bad as pressure to be pretty, thin, hairless or fashionably dressed. Thanks for the food for thought. xox
This video has helped me so much Shirley! I used to have such great confidence, but due to somebody at school who on various occassions pointed out my flaws to me, now I have very little confidence. I'm very self-conscious when I'm around people and always think that everyone is looking at my flaws - their probably not but I still usually feel like this. This video has really helped me and I hope I can grab my confidence back and not think that I have to look perfect 24/7 ♥
Don't give ear to such people if all they can do is find the imperfections about you. Remember this every moment some1 tries to degrade you "No one has it all/no one is perfect". Also want to add that sometimes you might look at people and wish you were like them but u will be surprised at the many imperfections/problems going on for those people. So keep your confidence high regardless of who says or thinks anything "they are not god neither are they perfect.
nnnean Aww thank you so much! I think I need to love myself as I am and not try to be someone else. Will defiantly be following your advice :) ♥
I feel that way too. No matter where I am o always feel that people are staring at me, talking about me pointing out my flaws.
Shirley, you inspire me want to clean my room! LOL xo
Also, beautiful vid :) Very encouraging. xo
Lmfao I was thinking the same thing
omg, same here! :D but I thought I was a little weirdo ;))
She inspired me to make a wardrobe 😀
this video made my heart SO HAPPY! i have Hashimoto disease so i AM incapable of gaining weight despite what diet/exercise routine i take on! i eat more than most boys i know...eating is actually one of my FAVORITE pastimes lol but with this I'm also scared to start my youtube channel/vlog because of the judgement I'm sure ill receive but i plan on watching this video a few more times to gain strength! so PLEASE continue to be real and honest and make videos like this! :)
I hope it all works out for you hun. :)
late replay but THANK YOU!!:)
OMG! Your skinny comment is right on point! For years I've had to walk on eggshells whenever the 'fat' topic came up. We try to censor our comments about 'fat' people yet for some reason, it seems okay to bash skinny people. I've always been skinny and NO, I don't have an eating disorder. Still, it seems to be a crime being skinny...esp in the black community (I've noticed) and by extension, Jamaica. You have to be thick to be seen as healthy. Sad.
I just love your positivity! Thank you for inspiring me!
You are glowing!
NattieMaddie Luv Thanks! =)
I agree! Self confidence isn't something that one is born with, it is something that we have to constantly work towards achieving. Confidence has become an essential part of surviving in today's times when every second person you meet seems more confident than you are.
you made this when i MOST needed to hear this. thank you beautiful! :) xo
Alexx Beautiful
This video really encouraged me this morning! I struggle badly with body image. Everyday I am consumed by negative thoughts about my body, my skin, my hair, etc. But hearing you talk about your flaws (which are very realistic and commom) really helped me to realize that no one is perfect! I always look at you and other beauty gurus and think, "God, she's perfect. She is so beautiful and seems to have it all together." Sometimes I have to remind myself that you all are human too! Thanks for the inspiration and encouragement. I love your channel and I can't wait to share this video with my friends.
really inspiring video! can you do a video on girl issues like waxing and stuff, maybe a personal hygene video on how to always stay looking fresh(cause we all get sweaty) lol xx
beautyfeind7 Thank you! Haha! Maybe I will! x
Please do this video Shirley!!! I beg you!
+Holey Moley LOL if you knew what bleached hands looked like 😂Her hands are NOT bleached. And she's nigerian and ghanaian
true 😅
i made a video about this, its on my channel if u want to take a look! x
I watched this video while Getting Ready for bed in the bathroom. Now After watching it i am sitting on my bathroom floor....And i am really emotional and Really close to Tears. This video is soo good and so Important and so true. Thank You so much. I needed something like this. Best wishes from Germany 🌷🌺🍀💓
I liked the last tip BE GOOD TO YOUR MIND
shirley ! thank you soooo much for touching on society praising one body type and shaming the other ! its ridiculous ! we (skinny, thin, thick, fat) can all love ourselves without downing the other ! much love !
PREACH ! I feel like you're a big sister talking to me (even tho you're just a year or 2 older than me); God bless you Shirley !
seriously, woman how you manage to look sophisticated in a tank top is beyond me... kudos for this video ! This is what lots of women need to hear specially the part about knocking another body type down ! I loved it !
Shirley a seperate message for you. Thank you for making this video. You've encouraged me to keep loving myself. You're a beautiful women inside and out. I like when I see you on my subscriptions. Keep inspiring! God bless you :) oxoxo
Aww thank you hun! x
Erm so Shirley just replied to my comment💃😊
love this girl,like her voice and calmness and confidence.
I love this lady please tell her that 😍😍😍
I'm a girl overcoming both BDD and manic personality disorder. I find this video very very inspiring and thank you so much for making it! I'm at the stage already in my 'mental transformation' in which I'm beginning to gain confidence again and to accept both my outer looks and inner mind. Hearing your take on what people think and what you should think about yourself was cool, because it matches how I've been thinking recently as well. Thanks beautiful! I think your face is gorgeous ^-^
Love love love this video!!
Thank you so much Shirley. I really needed this. Am not the type of person to feel bad for myself or have a really low self image but when you have people who are supposed to love you intentionally trying their best to beat you down and make you feel bad about yourself, it's seem impossible to keep your head high. I actually cried myself to sleep last night cos I thought I needed it. I needed to let everything go and just be strong. Thanks for your encouraging words and your reassurance.
u are so genuine....
I definitely needed to hear this today! I'm a worrywart (hair, complexion, weight, smell, health, height, personality) and I'm always doing the comparison thing. I, unfortunately, learned these negative thinking patterns from my mother. It's been way more challenging than I realized to break out of it, but vids like this help. Women like you help. Sharing positive and kind words between each other does wonders! xoxo
shirley, I adore you! You remind my why in all of your videos! :) x
YESSS Shirley, YESSSSS! It's so refreshing to hear women on TH-cam speak about self-image and confidence. Love you girl! Xoxo
Every body type is beautiful .🤗💓
This video was perfect, you are going to reach and help so many people. Very inspiring
I actually love this video
thank you so much for this advice, i will be going to an exhibition in 4 days and i'm already having anxiety about the way i will look in my dresses with body image and now hearing this make me not caring of what others think of me... Thank you Shirley, kiss from Switzerland
Girl you are so gorgeous! Love the video
Great video! I agree with you when you said how some bigger girls bash naturally skinny girls. It's still discrimination regardless, what's life without variation and variety. We should all appreciate that people come in all shapes and sizes it makes life interesting.
you are very inspirational i love it .
I don't think I've ever took the time to comment on your videos (though i appreciate you) but this is just so well done and said. Usual videos about self esteem and body image when done by youtubers are usually so cheesy and cliche. The first point you talked about may seem basic to you but I think it's the most important one. Girls are not here to look pretty. I was not put on this earth to look desirable for you. Men who don't even know you will feel they have a right to judge your physique like, who do you even think you are? It's very very important to realize you don't owe anything to anyone. Not your parents, not your friends, no one. Not a damn thing. Appreciate what God gave you and learn to love yourself. People's disappointment in your looks concerns them, not YOU !
This is the first time i'm watching you and i SWEAR i'm in love with you !
Thank you so much this video has literally changed my life in so many ways I no longer worry about my body image ever after living in constant worry and checking th mirror every 5-10 minutes . Thank you so much I owe you so much xx I honestly can't thank you enough
Great vid as always girl! I would love to see a video based on your opinions of "video vixens" aka video girls... Just how the industry wants girls to look a certain way especially the cultural aspect of it i.e girls getting illegal butt shots and the booty/waist ratio (waist training fad) this image is becoming the norm but I think to the every day girl these kind of images are quite damaging. Sorry If I sound like I'm rambling! But I would love to hear your opinion as I respect your views as a woman! Lots of love - a fellow Londoner x
I've had self-confidence issues for YEARS about pretty much everything about me and I believe that this video may have changed all of that. Thank you! Stay beautiful, Girl! ;)
You rung a huge bell when you said: "You don't owe anyone pretty". As a female society seems to think all women owe them pretty. For example, Michelle Obama, Angela Merkle, Hilary Clinton are all smart powerful women, yet what does the media concentrate on? Their appearance. People rarely mention John Biden, Richard Branson or Bill Gates looks.
If I get a complement, fantastic and if I don't, well I'm not a model so being beautiful is not my job- the majority of the population aren't models, so why strive for that? We are more than our looks, appearance is just a shell that eventually cracks.
I can't say much more than thank you for making this video. There aren't enough confident, humble, and easy going people around these days. This is a great way to spread the word and do something positive for our well being as a species.
You are so amazing!!
I loved this video! For someone struggling with her own body image issues its so inspiring to see you encouraging people to find the best in themselves and then strive to be healthier! I forget that beauty comes in so many different shapes, colors and sizes! Thank u!
No bloopers? I like them almost as much as the main videos. Lol. Great video Shirley
Awww will put them in the next one! xx
This was such an inspiring and positive video to watch. As a person who grew up being chubby and getting bullied, the images of those times rushed back to me. Even after I lost the weight people still judged me for what I used to look like, which made me upset. But after a while, I realized how shallow those people were and that I was happy so the amount of friends I have or how popular I am means nothing. It's just a mere phase of my whole life. You are such a beautiful person and I hope that more people will follow in your footsteps of being a role model 😘 Much love sista! ❤️
Thank you for mentioning naturally skinny women. We all are born with different body shapes one is not better than the other! Big or small
Shirley B. Eniang "And pay no mind to those people who always say things like...'oh who does she think she is?' I mean, who does she think she is? She's gonna obviously gonna think that she is her. Do you want her to think that she is you? Probably not." Love that quote from you.
You are so gorgeous !
I honestly teared up a bit, you're so positive I hope to be like you one day. What I love most is the fact that this wasn't targeted to only thick girls, but to ALL girls which is something people need to realise more often, because everyone feels insecure at some point. Thank you for this amazing video, you are by far my favourite TH-camr of all. Oh, and one question if you don't mind me asking, how old are you?
Shirley you're basically perfect. Perfect face and perfect body so its strange to hear you talk like this =/
To 'you' her body is perfect....but to her, she accepts and embrace her flaws. We all have our own perceptions/opinions of ourselves and other's.
No... Its always the girls that are nearly perfect that talk about having confident. Like her skin in clear, white teeth, perfect makeup. Maybe her lips or body could possibly be something she thinks is a flaw but 4real, people would kill to have her body and lips naturally. She is nearly perfect (physically because idk about her personal life)
kiasmn Exactly. I've noticed this with alot of TH-cam gurus these days. I think they're trying to be more 'relatable'. But they don't understand that it's always easier to be confident when you look close to societies idea of perfection lol.
*****
By society's standards, she is nearly perfect so its easier for her to talk about having confidence. I'm not saying she is perfect, im saying from what media shows and and how we were taught, she is "nearly" perfect. its easy for her to try and give advice when she hasn't gone thru it
Focus on the advice she's giving and not her physic. In a lot of her advice videos she stresses on how its important to work on your inner self and personality, think of the phrase beauty comes from within. She's admitted herself that she wasn't the most attractive looking person when she was younger but she's grown into herself with time. If you feel good on the inside you develop the confidence to rock new looks on yourself. You take better care of your body and doing that in turn makes you feel beautiful. Yes its true some people may be born with more attractive features than others but are you really gonna keep putting yourself down for the rest of your like coz of that? Just roll with it and celebrate your own qualities. We don't know her life so we can't say she's had it easy and even if she has then good for her
Thanks for sharing! I had great success losing weight last summer but it a plateau late last year and it's been hell trying to get back to where I was. I've gained back 10 of the 35 pounds I lost, and have been really hard on myself of late. Seeing the "be good to your mind" part makes me realize of much my own thoughts now have changed from where I was. I focused a lot on letting all aspects of negativity go back then, and somehow let it creep back in. Done with that and off to the gym! Thanks Shirley.
Also I think your big lips are gorgeous :)
this is the ONLY self-confidence video I found that ACTUALLY helps, and isn't just pointless "guru" rambling
What an amazing video! I am naturally thin & petite. I've constantly been told that I need to eat! What helps me get through situations like that is to consider the source & recognize that if someone feels the need to be offensive toward me & my body type, they're obviously not happy with themselves.
The last point was peferect! Looking after my mind and constantly feeding myself with positivity has helped me overcome mild depression over the years. This video was really beneficial xx
Thank you for this so much!! I'm striving so hard to be confident, I've never been able to be confident as I've grown up in an abusive household that taught confidence was whorish and negative. My mother fell to my fathers manipulation and I thought living this way was normal up until my dad disowned me at 13. As a 17 year old with severe anxiety and insecurity issues your videos are quite inspiring and I very much so appreciate you for doing what you do.
Shirley, I really appreciate that you are one of the few youtubers who make this kind of videos, thank you for being very confident with us, showing what type of person you are! xoxo
Needed to hear this and didn't even know it. People keep saying that I'm skinny but the thing is I'm naturally skinny and I happen to like how I look. Thank you for sharing Shirley !
Shirley ... This is by far the BEST body/self confidence video I have seen! Thank you!
And also ... So happy that you celebrate and love you! You are incredibly beautiful and seem like a wonderful person. Wish you the best! 😄
Yeah girl! I find that ignoring the negativity is in the end the best avenue to follow, although common is the belief that it's easier said than done! Thanks for sharing girl! Kisses
Just came back to watch this video again (it's in my likes) and I was blown away all over again. It is so nice to see people talking about themselves in a nurturing way! You are brilliant and have such a strong voice that's carried to so many people and I hope that you are very very proud of yourself and what you do.
You just received a new subscriber. I’ve only watched this video of you and now I’m preparing myself to watch every single one of your videos right now. You’re beautiful and inspirational. This video has helped me so much.
I love it Shirley! I especially like the part where you touch on the contradiction of putting down one body type and praising another. God made sooo many types of "beautiful" and the sooner we all realize that the better we become.
Sometimes you just need to take a break and think about whats really important in your life, which is your own happiness. Thank you Shirley! That was very inspiring and thoughtful! Love you x
This has been really inspirational. I have A LOT of body issues, and this has been really eye opening. It's great to know there are caring people like you out there. thank you.
I love the message you give through this video. Especially celebrating your look and what you have part. Living in Korea, where the beauty standard is so narrow, it is very easy to turn to plastic surgery as the ultimate solution to body image issues. I used to make plans for getting my nose done, cutting my cheekbones, get liposuction when I was in highschool just like any other girls. But I grew to love my face and bodyshape as they are when I went to university and that made me comfortable and confident which led to less worries and stress for me and also others being attracted to me more..? Figuring that out, now I am sad to see so many teens going through plastic surgery because they think they are too ugly to handle. I wish many viewers watch your video and grow to have positive mindset! (I hope you understood what I wanted to say. English is not my first language...)
This video is spot on. Especially, about thick vs thin. I can't how either or is supposed to be better. Health is what should be promoted.
You should be able to compliment others without it taking away from who you are. And your self-confidence should never become arrogance.
I LOVE you Shirley! You are so intelligent and sensitive, and you are a big inspiration for me!
I love the way you speak and you are a true beauty that shins from within. Thank you for being you!
Shirley you just spoke sooo much truth in this video! As someone who has come a long way from unhealthy eating habits, low confidence and anxiety this spoke a lot to me. Thank you for sharing with us, sharing is caring ^_^ xx
Thank you so much for this video hun! There was one thing I use to hear growing up was that "I was pretty for a dark skinned girl" I had no idea what that meant until now that I am older but I ignored it then and I do now some people are so ignorant smh
This is the first time I came across one of your videos. As someone who has had really sad experiences with my image (from bullying to random strangers picking on me or making not so hushed comments about my face as I pass by) I feel really, really grateful for the things you said here. I don't know if they will change my life, but surely brightened a few minutes of it :) subscribed!!
Thankyou! I'm lacking a lot of confidence and think daily on things I would love to change about myself. I have realised that I need to change the way I think and the other stuff will follow x
Thank you for this video! Body shaming against "bigger girls" or "smaller girls" as whats perceived by other people as whats suppose to be is not okay. What you said was eloquent. And something i felt like was stood up for with naturally skinny girls as well.Both. We are all human and beautiful in our own right.
To be honest, i was kind of unsure about watching this video in the beginning because I was worried it might trigger me, but im so so so happy I did. Shirley, every new video you put out just makes me happier and makes me see how much of an amazing person you are and just.. wow. this is such an important topic and its so great that you are using your platform to spread all these messages. truly. only one thing i would like to say though: you (not only you specifically, but 'you' in general) shouldnt refer to stretch marks or spots or pigmentation or cellulite of any of that stuff as flaws. because they're not. they're perfectly normal; many many people have them, of varying body types, and it might be offensive to call them flaws, even if thats what they are by society's beauty standards.
anyways, i just wanted to say thank you thank you thank you
I love all you said. Especially when you said you were hairy. I can relate. I have hair in those same areas. Also I have skin blemishs due to some ingrown hairs. I get down on myself because of that. Every two weeks wax and back to cover up with the makeup. It's a little extra work now, until I get my skin in order. Blemishes are starting to clear up some. Like you said, if you don't like something, work on it. That's what we all need to do. Instead of getting upset, and taking our anger out on someone else because they don't have the flaws we do. Our physical as well as our mental is all a working progress. Thank for your video.
Thank you so much Shirley! I have confidence but I need a reminder every now and then and I love your advice.
OMG Shirley, I feel like you dreamt of me before doing this video. This was much needed. I was being bullied for the longest because I'm African and you know my classmates felt like being American makes you so much cooler of a person. It was hard for to deal with and it took me years to get over it. The way I dealt with the situation was, I just focused on the people who genuinely cared about me and I'm an even stronger person because of those challenges I faced in school. Thank you for this video xoxo
Yes Shirley!!! I absolutely love this video I know it shall speak and touch so many. It is so annoying how people and society dictate what is attractive and how many people feel a way because they don't fit this mold. Love yourself is what you are preaching and you are so right!
SHIRLEY!! Thank you so much for this video. I just started a TH-cam channel with my sister, and its sometimes hard getting over how I view myself. We are so hard on ourselves for no reason at all. It has taken me a while to love myself and be confident in the body I was born with. Thank you for the reminders.
Much love from Toronto xoxo
You're literally like a fairy godmother! Just always making my inner princess shine through! Thanks Shirley 💛
shirley you dont even know how much you help people with this. Thankyou
I love when you said "celebrate your body" it's yours and you should love it. I totally agree
I usually never comment but you and this little pep talk deserve it. You touched all important topics and used amazing inspiring words, I think this is probably one of the best videos I've seen in a long time. Thank you! Let's just all love our beautiful minds and bodies, it is a long journey but we can all make it.
the lip combo is looking so so perfect on your skin!
thank you so much for this video we all tend to forget the good things we have and get carried away with the media everyone has issues still learning to love myself .. but it gets easier the older we get!