Hey guys, let’s talk about the pressure to look good for men. We all know how it feels to scroll through social media and see images of guys with abs for days and chiselled biceps. But then, we’re told that it’s okay to have a #dadbod and not worry about our physique. So, what’s the deal?

I’m here to tell you that it’s okay to feel confused and even frustrated by these mixed messages. Growing up, I struggled with my body image. I was always called “Sticks” because I was skinny. It made me feel self-conscious and even afraid to wear shorts in the summer. But as I got older and gained some weight, I started to feel more comfortable in my own skin.

However, I soon noticed that people were commenting on my body in a different way. Instead of being teased for being skinny, I was praised for looking “healthy” or “well-fed.” It made me worry that I was getting too big and that there was something wrong with my body. It’s like there’s a double standard when it comes to men’s bodies – it can be confusing and even hurtful.

But here’s the thing: our bodies are ours, and they’re perfect just the way they are. We shouldn’t have to conform to some unrealistic beauty standard that society imposes on us. It’s great to see brands like Save x Fenty featuring “regular-body” men as models for their menswear range. It’s a step towards celebrating all different types of bodies and showing that we don’t have to fit into a specific mould to be attractive.

I won’t lie – I still struggle with my body image from time to time. But I remind myself that my body is mine, and it’s unique and special in its own way. And if anyone has a problem with that, it’s their problem, not mine.

So, let’s start talking about these issues more openly. We need to challenge the double standards that exist around men’s bodies and celebrate all shapes and sizes. At the end of the day, we’re all just trying to navigate this crazy world, and our bodies are nothing to be ashamed of.

How have societal expectations and double standards affected your own perception of your body?