LONDON -- Cara Delevingne might be a world-famous supermodel and actress, but her journey to the top hasn't been without its challenges. In a new essay for TIME magazine's Motto, the model reveals her struggle toward self-acceptance and her desperation to gain the approval of the fashion industry.
"I worked hard to be accepted by the fashion community in ways beyond my physical appearance," wrote Delevingne, 23, about when she started out as a model.
"In no time, though, I found myself surrendering to the industry’s approval process. I felt like I needed validation from everyone."
After a while, this need for approval caused her to lose sight of herself, says Delevingne; something she believes stemmed from a deep-down feeling of wanting people to like and love her.
"Over time, I came to realise that work and getting others’ approval isn’t the most important thing. Yes, your career is very important—but it’s not the most important. Of course I was proud of my accomplishments, but I wasn’t genuinely happy."
This turning point taught Delevingne a valuable lesson about self-acceptance and loving herself.
"I still have so much to learn, but I have realised that beating myself up, feeling guilty and regretting past mistakes will only hold me back."
"After all, no matter how many people like you and your work, it doesn’t matter if you don’t like yourself."
Wise words!