Olympic athletes say ‘no’ to narrow beauty standards with SK-II #NoCompetition

Beauty. When did it really become a competition?

From the moment we are born, we are in this competitive race that we never signed up for. Whether it’s studies or career, or even the pressure to be in the right shape, we’ve all got our fair share of competition against each other. In today’s society, we are always seeking acceptance and assurance, even if it’s that ‘perfect’ picture we need to post on our social media, every now and then, to show the world we are happy. In short, we’re letting the outside world dictate our choice.

We didn’t ask anyone to tell us how we should look, feel, or act. Competition may be a compelling way to drive our ambitions and bring out the best in us, but it’s also toxic when it becomes a pressure rather than a celebration.

To initiate and to make an effort to take the competition out of beauty, renowned skincare brand SK-II teams up with top Olympic athletes to unveil a #NOCOMPETITION campaign. As the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 are approaching, the world is coming together to celebrate the beauty of competition, and there couldn’t be an any better occasion to stir this movement. SK-II aims to spark liberating conversations that will not only inspire women to stop limiting themselves to an idyllic definition of beauty, but also to free themselves from this toxic thought of imposed beauty standards. The empowering campaign, #NOCOMPETITION was unveiled at The 2020 MAKERS Conference by SK-II, who is the partner of International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Here’s a dose of inspiration for all those women out there who even for a second, doubted their ability just because of their appearance. Top Olympic athletes have spoken about their personal experiences, and they have spoked loud and clear that “We won’t compete anymore. Beauty is #NOCOMPETITION.”

Simone Biles, the world’s most decorated gymnast

LiuXiang, world-record holder swimmer

Ishikawa Kasumi, table tennis player and two-time Olympic medalist

Ayaka Takahashi and Misaki Matsutomo, badminton duo and Olympic gold medalists

Mahinda Maeda, surfer

Hinotori Nippon, the Japan Volleyball team

If you feel inspired just like we did by these strong women, then you can also lend your voice to this cause. Share your thoughts about what beauty means to you with #NOCOMPETITION via social media. Visit #NOCOMPETITION page for more information.