The Price of Attention: Reclaiming Our Inner Child
Recently, I spoke with a woman in her late 20s about the yearning of our inner child for play and creativity. Our conversation drifted back to our pre-teen years, a time when we were conditioned to idolize symbols of femininity rooted in physical desirability—the icons who captured attention and admiration, primarily from men. As we transitioned into puberty, we began to feel a significant shift in how we perceived ourselves and how we were perceived by others.
What we weren’t prepared for was the harsh reality of being treated like a commodity. Our bodies, once viewed through the innocent lens of childhood, became subjects of scrutiny. Suddenly, every aspect of our physical appearance—our noses, breasts, glutes—was under relentless examination. This shift marked the beginning of a new narrative, where our worth seemed tied to our shapes and sizes.
We entered a phase filled with the illusion that we would be loved and accepted, only to discover a relentless barrage of gazes and comments. Instead of feeling celebrated for our uniqueness, we became hyper-aware of how we measured up to narrow standards of beauty. This constant observation left many of us feeling exposed and vulnerable, as if our bodies were not ours to cherish but rather public property for critique.
As we navigated this tumultuous period, the vibrant spirit of our inner child began to dim. The joy of self-expression was overshadowed by the need to conform to expectations that often felt out of reach. In this climate, the natural desire to play, create, and simply be was stifled, replaced by an anxiety over whether we fit into the molds defined by others.
It’s time to challenge these deeply ingrained beliefs. Our worth is not determined by the opinions of others or the shape of our bodies. We must reclaim the joy of our inner child—the one that craves exploration, creativity, and authenticity. Instead of seeking validation from external sources, let’s cultivate a sense of self-worth rooted in our individuality.
We can create a culture that values authenticity over superficiality and celebrates our differences rather than judging them. By sharing our stories and experiences, we can inspire one another to break free from the constraints of societal expectations.
In nurturing our inner child, let’s engage in activities that bring us joy—whether that’s dancing, painting, or simply spending time with friends who uplift us. By reclaiming our sense of play and standing tall in our authenticity, we pave the way for future generations to do the same.
Our experiences matter, and by voicing them, we create a supportive community that empowers us all. It’s time to rise, cast aside judgment, and celebrate the beauty inherent in our true selves. Together, we can reshape the narrative around femininity and redefine what it means to be truly beautiful.
