I Forgot How to Be Seen Without Trying

I used to Google how to be attractive, as if there was a checklist I could finish and finally be done. Drink water, sleep eight hours, wear red lipstick. I followed every step, but none of it made me feel less invisible to myself. Every morning, I’d stare at my face in the mirror, trying to smooth out the tiredness with concealer and a forced smile. I memorized all the right body language—open arms, eye contact, the practiced laugh. It felt like acting, like I was auditioning for a part I never really wanted. Sometimes I wonder if anyone would like me if I stopped trying so hard. If I left the house with my hair unbrushed, or let my real laugh slip out, too loud and unfiltered. I don’t know if I’d recognize myself, or if anyone else would. Maybe that’s what scares me most. #MirrorFatigue #BareFaceAnxiety #BeautyBurnout #Beauty