INTERVIEW|Don’t look at yourself with shame: Brooke Shields

What would you say is the biggest change between you now and who you were 30 years ago?

The older I have gotten, the more I have forgiven myself for not chasing the things I used to. I am not as judgemental about myself as I used to be. I don’t compare myself to others the way I used to. I have forgiven myself for not looking a certain way or having a certain type of body in the way our society so often perpetuates.

Do you ever find yourself reading negative comments about yourself online?

It’s something I have to constantly remind myself not to do. Don’t read the comments! Sometimes it happens, but you have to understand that we live in a society where anybody can say whatever they want. Some people are so quick to make a comment without really understanding how out of touch they are.

You have a big birthday coming in May. How do you plan to celebrate?

Yeah, 60. It’s a big birthday! I’m going to celebrate for sure, but not just on the day. There are some things I want to do with my most special friends. So, we are going to do things throughout the year and just celebrate.

Is it important for you to set the right example for your daughters?

Absolutely. They are a very different generation, but I want them to have that conversation and to celebrate their bodies in a way that I never did. I want my daughters to see what I have done, to understand that I have had babies, kept a marriage going, and all of these things, but that it’s not over. I don’t want them to think that it’s never going to be better than now for them.

Finally, what message do you want to share with women who may be struggling with the pressure to be beautiful and the effects of ageing?

I just want all women to know that they are fabulous and to step into your own power and your own self. We don’t have the time anymore to be envious, jealous, afraid, or insecure. Stop beating yourself up and the age you are right now can be a wonderful time. Sure, get in shape, be healthy, get your roots done—that’s your choice. Just don’t look at yourself with shame, fear, or trepidation. You can do what you want and be who you want to be.

—Asia Features

“I am not as judgemental about myself as I used to be. I don’t compare myself to others the way I used to.”

Brooke shields, Actor