As employees return to the office after a lengthy period of remote work, many are concerned about their so-called “office bod.” But honestly, we need to let this idea go.
First and foremost, let’s take a moment to acknowledge that our bodies have carried us through an unprecedented global pandemic that has affected millions of lives. With the COVID-19 situation improving thanks to the availability of vaccines (though we still face challenges due to vaccine hesitancy and the emergence of new variants), people are slowly transitioning back to the office. Many American workers have been adjusting to working from home since the pandemic began, and now the workplace is re-emerging. However, we absolutely should not let the concept of the “office bod” take root—not today, or ever.
It’s disheartening to see individuals fixating on their appearance as they prepare to return to in-person work, especially when they should be focusing on the significant changes in their lives. According to Bloomberg, the pressure to achieve the perfect “office bod” is weighing heavily on many minds, and it really shouldn’t be. Haven’t we endured enough over the past year?
The article notes that “Americans who comforted themselves with indulgent foods are now desperately trying to slim down for the ideal office bod.” Gym memberships are on the rise, personal trainers are fully booked, and digital subscriptions to WW (formerly Weight Watchers) saw a 16% increase at the end of the first quarter compared to the previous year.
This situation makes me deeply sad. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to feel healthy and vibrant, but the notion that we must be slimmer before returning to the office after such a challenging time is simply heartbreaking. Transitioning back to normalcy is already rife with stress. Families are adapting after spending so much time together, and the thought of returning to commutes, leaving pets alone, and navigating office politics adds to the pressure. We shouldn’t have to stress about fitting into a specific size of pants while managing ongoing pandemic concerns. If there was ever a time to allow ourselves some grace and flexibility in our wardrobe choices, it’s now.
We don’t have to put ourselves through this kind of pressure. Embracing healthy eating and movement is great, but feeling compelled to conform to a certain body standard upon returning to work after a tumultuous year is just unfair. If this resonates with you, I encourage you to practice self-kindness. Your workplace will welcome whatever body you bring, and if that means investing in some new, comfortable clothing, then so be it.
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Summary
The pressure to attain an “office bod” as employees return to the workplace is a trend that should be resisted. After a challenging year marked by a global pandemic, it’s crucial to prioritize self-acceptance and health over unrealistic body standards. Let’s be kind to ourselves and embrace the bodies we have as we transition back to the office.
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Keywords: office bod, body positivity, self-acceptance, workplace trends, COVID-19, health, wellness