Today we’d like to introduce you to Chantria Beason.
Hi Chantria, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My name is Tria Elizabeth Carter, and I’m a 41-year-old proud single mom of two, born and raised in Houston, Texas. My life has been a colorful tapestry of experiences, interests, and, most importantly, my journey toward body positivity. I have always been passionate about creative arts, photography, makeup, and fashion, but my path to self-acceptance has been far from straightforward.
### My Relationship with My Body
From a young age, my relationship with my body was complicated. At just 10 years old, I felt ashamed of my large breasts, a source of humiliation that also made me a target for inappropriate attention from authority figures. This early experience planted seeds of insecurity that followed me into my teenage years.
When I turned 15, I began participating in pageants and modeling contests, which offered a brief boost to my confidence. By 18, I was inspired to explore swimsuit modeling and even landed my first gig in vibrant cities like New York, Dallas, and Atlanta. However, the intense competition in the modeling world led me to step back. I felt sidelined, not fitting the mold of those who were comfortable in their skin, especially when nudity was involved.
Motherhood arrived unexpectedly at 25, and it turned my world upside down. The physical changes that came with my first pregnancy were overwhelming, and the stress of a toxic relationship only compounded my struggles. After a cesarean section, I battled my self-image, feeling defeated by the pressure to conform to societal ideals.
Even after marrying at 32, I found myself grappling with body image issues. Despite my efforts, I couldn’t shake the feeling of inadequacy. When my husband left me at 39, it became a pivotal moment in my life. I lost 100 pounds in just a year and a half, not only shedding weight but also the burdens of insecurity that had weighed me down for years.
### Finding Strength Amid Challenges
Entering my 40s brought new challenges regarding my body image. The shock of my husband’s departure due to my appearance was devastating. Yet, from this pain, I found resilience. I committed myself to walking three miles every day, rain or shine. This simple act transformed my mindset and became a symbol of my determination to reclaim my life.
Counseling played a vital role in my journey, allowing me to confront my insecurities and understand that my self-worth wasn’t tied to a man’s approval. I learned to take accountability for my body image, recognizing it as my responsibility.
### Confronting Societal Expectations
Societal expectations around beauty have always influenced me—especially during the early 2000s when the ideal body type seemed unattainable. The “BBL era” heightened my insecurities. As my husband became more successful, I felt the pressure to fit an image that didn’t reflect my true self.
However, with age came wisdom. I learned to prioritize health over societal standards, focusing on my personal goals without the weight of external judgments.
### The Role of Community
Community has been essential in my journey. My childhood friends, along with my mother and mother-in-law, provided unwavering support and guidance. Their encouragement helped me embrace body positivity and my authentic self.
My modeling career took a new turn when I became a brand ambassador and Instagram influencer. I now use my platform to promote self-love and acceptance, aiming to inspire others to embrace who they are.
### A New Perspective on Body Positivity
To me, body positivity means transforming pain into purpose. I emphasize the importance of accountability and self-care, reminding myself that self-preservation is key. Life is too short to live in self-doubt.
I want to share a message with anyone navigating similar struggles: every workout, every sacrifice is proof that you chose growth.
### A Hopeful Future
As I look to the future, I envision a world where women over 40 embrace their age as a number that doesn’t dictate their worth. I hope to see more women confidently owning their unique beauty, reflecting grace and gratitude.
In a society that often equates aging with losing value, I stand as a testament to the contrary. Authenticity, I believe, is the key to finding joy in our journey.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My life was turned upside down when my partner left, leading to a divorce that shattered my dreams of a perfect home and family. Along the way, I lost important relationships and struggled with eating and mental disorders
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a visionary creative who brings ideas to life through event planning, modeling, and inspiring life perspective. I most known for my lifestyle perspective empowering others daily over social media to overcome their challenges which is what I’m most proud of. What sets me apart from most is the impact I have with sharing my raw experiences and growth making me a role model for others.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
If if you are looking for a reason to be unhappy, you’ll find one
If you’re looking for a reason to be grateful, you’ll find that too
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