The Unexpected Joys of Living Out Loud in a Plus-Size Body

For too long, mainstream media and societal norms have told plus-size people that joy is something they must earn. That they must shrink, conform, and contort themselves to fit into a mold before they’re allowed to feel happy, confident, and free. But that narrative is crumbling—and in its place, a new story is being written.

Let’s talk about joy—the kind that bubbles up from deep within when you finally start living unapologetically in your body, no matter the size. Take plus-size model Tess Holliday, who famously declared, “I’m proud of my body. I’ve worked hard to love it.” Her joy doesn’t come from societal approval. It comes from radical self-acceptance and a fierce belief that she belongs in the spotlight, just as she is.

The joy of being plus-size and living fully comes in everyday moments. It’s in laughing with friends at brunch without obsessing over calories. It’s in stepping onto a dance floor and letting go of shame. It’s in taking the beach selfie you used to hide from and celebrating the stretch marks that tell your story.

Joy is putting on the bold outfit, going on the date, trying a new sport, or launching the business. Joy is no longer delaying your life until you’re a different size.

Research supports this too. A 2021 study in the Journal of Health Psychology found that body appreciation is closely linked to psychological well-being. People who actively accept and love their bodies experience more frequent positive emotions and stronger self-worth.

Joy doesn’t belong to a dress size—it belongs to anyone who dares to reclaim it. You don’t need to wait for permission. You just need to start living out loud.