My struggle with self-worth and desperate need for advice
Assalamu alaikum, I've dealt with body image issues for as long as I can remember. Even as a child, I was fixated on getting a nose job because people called my nose a ‘beak.’ Everyone around me seemed so beautiful, and I couldn't stop comparing myself. I ended up with an eating disorder when I was young, which I truly regret, because it affected my body's development. That disorder started after harsh bullying in high school-I was so anxious and awkward. I later did weight training without knowing what I was doing, and now I just feel repulsive. It seems my siblings got the good looks without even trying, while my appearance is a test from Allah. Without makeup, I'm just mediocre, so I've had lip fillers, masseter botox, and polynucleotides to look decent. Still, I need cosmetics to feel attractive, and I keep my glasses on because without them, my face seems long and my nose too prominent. How do I stop comparing myself to everyone? Even a simple outing, I can't enjoy because I'm always measuring myself against others. When I was working, I couldn't focus-constantly comparing. Every talking stage for marriage ends the same, and I think it's because of how I look; people don't seem to want to commit. My imaan sometimes wavers, knowing Allah knows looks are all I've ever wanted, yet He gave beauty to my siblings instead. As a woman, beauty matters so much, and I don't have a career or status to compensate. I've hit rock bottom and wasted my twenties on this misery. It's a constant internal battle that even stops me from making wudhu outside-I'm terrified to reveal my bare face. I worry marriage wouldn't bring joy because I'd always hide my true face, scared of turning my spouse away. Any blunt advice is welcome.