I’m a huge dancer around the gym now, especially in between sets. I’ve grown so much in confidence. Wearing makeup doesn’t magically fix insecurity, but for me, it gives me that extra boost to just have fun in the gym instead of hiding in the background. When I feel put together, I’m more willing to take up space, move around, and enjoy my workout without constantly worrying about how I look.

I used to feel really self-conscious at the gym. When I didn’t feel “attractive enough” to be there, I’d just stare at myself in the mirror, picking apart the parts of my face I didn’t like and fussing with my outfit, trying to make it look “better.” Half the time I’d end up leaving because I felt like I wasn’t enough. I started wearing makeup to the gym because I realized it actually helped me feel more like myself. I already knew it gave me confidence in my day-to-day life and in my classes, so bringing that same feeling into the gym just made sense. When I catch a glimpse of myself now, I don’t spiral. I see someone who looks the way I feel on the inside, and that makes it so much easier to focus on my workout instead of my insecurities.

PLS, UBLA, Music School, Honey Badgers, etc