Sam Smith on Body Image and Identity

Introduction

• Sam Smith's first time speaking publicly about body image.
• Struggles with body image since childhood.
• Tour experiences intensified focus on body health.

Moment of Realization

• A holiday experience led to deciding to address body image issues.
• Historically had anxiety about swimming in public.

Men's Body Positivity

• Lack of conversation about men's body issues.
• Toxic masculinity and societal norms limit discussions.

Early Body Awareness

• Struggles with weight and chest since childhood.
• Had liposuction at age 12 due to high estrogen levels.

Bullying and Therapy

• Experienced bullying related to body and sexual orientation.
• Started therapy a year ago to address deep-seated issues.

Personal Identity and Expression

• Experimented with gender expression, inspired by artists like Lady Gaga.
• Struggled with personal identity while living in a small town.

Impact of Fame

• Fame brought challenges and isolation in personal relationships.
• Experiences with body dysmorphia intensified with public scrutiny.

Relationship with Weight

• Emotional eating and stress led to weight fluctuations.
• Public fat-shaming incident in Australia was a turning point.

Body Dysmorphia

• Difficulty perceiving true body image.
• Relies on photos for self-assessment.

Non-binary and Gender Identity

• Identifies as non-binary or genderqueer.
• Embraces a spectrum of gender identity.

Social Media and Self-Perception

• Changed social media habits to promote positive body image.
• Inspired by movements like iWeigh.

Message to Followers

• Advocates for forgiveness and self-compassion.
• Emphasizes self-love as a continuous practice.

Conclusion

• Sam Smith aims to live openly and authentically.
• Encourages others to be true to themselves, mistakes and all.
• Rejects cancel culture and promotes vulnerability.