The Power Of A Positive Attitude – Can It Overshadow Size?

By Brian Maynor

 

Melissa McCarthy.  Rebel Wilson.  Erica Watson.  These are all funny women who also happen to be plus size.  Are they perpetuating a stereotype or just reflecting society?

For businesses this is a poignant question because a recent experiment from Grand Valley State University and Florida State University found that participants had a negative impression of the establishment when the person helping them was obese.  The study went on to find that these feelings disappeared when that person was cheerful and/or funny.

So what does that mean for the rest of us?  My takeaway is that confidence and happiness trumps size and can go a long way to overcoming public stigma.  Here are a few tips to bolster both:

 

1. Find what works for you.  Lady Gaga has been on record defending her 25 lb. weight gain more than she did her meat dress and is unapologetic, exactly like we would expect.  She has said, “this is who I am” and she’s ‘proud at any size.’  When you accept yourself for who you are you open the door for unabashed happiness and everyone can see it.  Happiness translates and transcends any size, bad hair day or breakout.
2. Claim your space.  When we’re self conscious we want to hide and fade into the background but that only lowers our self-esteem.  The next time you want to disappear try standing taller, puffing out your shoulders and lifting your chin.  Claiming your space makes you look and actually feel more confident.  Think of it as your power pose.
3. Gather your support system.  You may have to work with people you don’t like, but you certainly don’t have to hang out with them.  Friends and people who accept you without judgment are a gift and they are the only people worth spending your time.  Not only do they help you relax, they bring out your best self by pushing you outside your comfort zone.  So if your friends aren’t doing that for you then it’s time for some new friends.
4. Just do you.  It’s hard to be happy and content with yourself when everything in society is telling you to be something else, but if you can accomplish it you will be truly liberated.  Being yourself frees you from the pressure of following trends and conformity.  You know what works for you and that’s enough.  The impact that self-acceptance has on others is just a side effect.

 

True self-acceptance and expression is what we all should strive towards, but if it were easy everyone would do it.  Sadly only a fortunate few get there.  By living your truth you will have to deal with fear and rejection, but only you can decide if it’s worth it.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

 

I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace.  Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected].  Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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