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30 Times People Went Through “Ugly Duckling” Transformations And Shared Their Results To Inspire Others
Interview
About four years ago, an internet trend known as the "10-Year Challenge" took social media platforms by storm. This challenge involved people sharing two photographs of themselves side by side, showcasing their transformation over a decade.
Recently, a Twitter user by the name of 'Wandering Hedonist' took to the said platform to share his own over a decade-long transformation, from 2011 to 2023 to be exact. His caption humorously invited others to show their aging process akin to 'fine wine'. This post rapidly gained traction then, amassing nearly 800,000 views in just a matter of days. Moreover, the trend caught on as other users in the thread enthusiastically began sharing their own 'before and after' transformations too!
More info: twitter.com
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#1
2011 vs. 2023
Bored Panda recently had the opportunity to reach out and interview the previously mentioned user 'Wandering Hedonist' (or as he likes to call himself - Edgar), who is known for his viral Twitter thread and for his gastronomy channel called "Bars, Breakfasts & Flex". As a global gastronomy enthusiast, his platform on Telegram highlights the best breakfast spots and bars across the world.
When asked about his motivation to start this small challenge, he shared, "As someone who runs my own gastronomy channel ('Bars, Breakfasts & Flex'), I've always been all about sharing experiences and connecting with people. Creating this challenge felt like another opportunity to do just that - share a personal journey and potentially inspire others in the process."
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#2
2011 vs. 2023
mooshoflove 2 years ago (edited)
Is this the same human? The noses seem very different.. although they do have a similar freckle on their right cheek... but I am just waking up, so maybe it's my perception...
Edgar's caption in the tweet, 'aging like fine wine', captured the interest of many bird app users as some deemed it enough of a reason to join his challenge. In explaining the meaning behind this phrase, he told Bored Panda, "Just like a good wine that improves with age, I believe we as individuals also gain depth, character, and complexity over time. In the context of my work, I suppose it also has a cheeky gastronomical touch to it haha!"
#4
The Thread Author, 2011 vs. 2023
As mentioned before, the thread initiated by 'Wandering Hedonist' (Edgar) drew numerous people across the world who were quickly starting to share their own transformations by quote-tweeting his initial post. In response to whether any transformations stood out, Edgar revealed, "Each transformation shared in the thread was unique and inspiring in its own way. Seeing people embrace their journey and openly share their growth was truly moving. I think we as people tend to become better as we age (not only appearance-wise)."
#6
2015 vs. 2023
#7
2004 vs. 2023
When asked about how the success and reach of his tweet had affected his perspective of social media, he enthusiastically shared, "Absolutely, this experience has underscored the power of Twitter (and other socials) as a platform for connection. It has the ability to unite people around shared experiences, bridging geographic, cultural, and personal divides."
That being said, Pandas, we hope that this interview with Edgar shed some light on his passion for sharing not only his unique culinary experiences but also personal growth stories, as well as his belief in the power of social media to bring people together.
#8
2013 vs. 2023
#10
2012 vs. 2023
#11
2011 vs. 2023
Yeet_girl360 2 years ago
I swear, dudes always have the most perfectly arched eyebrows. Most girls would kill for some brows like that.
#12
2018 vs. 2023
Arturo De la Rosa 2 years ago
This 2023 look is the same as the teens from when I was in middle school, circa 1999... why bring it back!!!
#15
2016 vs. 2023
#16
2011 vs. 2023
#17
2001 vs. 2023
#19
2011 vs. 2023
#20
2013 vs. 2023
#21
2011 vs. 2023
#22
2012 vs. 2023
#23
2013 vs. 2023
#25
2011 vs. 2023
#26
2011 vs. 2023
#27
2014 vs. 2023
#28
2009 vs. 2023
Shyla Bouche 2 years ago
Why didn't he wait until his hair was dry to take the second picture?
#30
2013 vs. 2023
#31
2011 vs. 2023
#32
2010 vs. 2023
#33
2013 vs. 2023
Arturo De la Rosa 2 years ago (edited)
I would go back to the 2013 look TBH. It just softens up her features better. and short hair is hard to pull off. if i had to describe the 2023 pic in one word i would say: pointy
#35
2011 vs. 2023
#36
2010 vs. 2023
#38
2016 vs. 2023
#40
2012 vs. 2023
#41
2014 vs. 2023
#43
2016 vs. 2023
Arturo De la Rosa 2 years ago
This looks backwards to me some how the look on the left feels more contemporary. weird
#44
2017 vs. 2023
Arturo De la Rosa 2 years ago
Actually like the older look more, frames her face better. and it doesn't even look dated yet.
#45
2016 vs. 2023
Arturo De la Rosa 2 years ago (edited)
Funny enough this is not the first time that haircut has been in fashion, and it has never done any favors to anyone that i know of. XD God knows why it keeps coming back.
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Fat Harry 2 years ago
First one on the list where I think she looks worse now. Unhealthy skinny and awful haircut.
Channo Sagara 2 years ago
I'm sorry honey. Left is highschool crush. Right is some sort of junkie.
Lia is a platypus 2 years ago (edited)
I like the before haircut better tbh, but she looks pretty in both
Sandrapocalypse 2 years ago
Sorry, she looked better in the first pic! She looks ill in the second!
Antoinette Maldari 2 years ago
I wonder if the person who styled her hair is the same person that did the tattoos. The artwork is meh.
Jane No Dough 2 years ago
From angry and frightened to disillusioned and brave. Inspired before and after.
HarperTheCentaur (they/them) 2 years ago
Haircuts like that are the kind of thing that only the stunningly beautiful can pull off, lol. She makes it work, but just barely.
HarperTheCentaur (they/them) 2 years ago
They're not really meant to "improve your looks", they're a form of self expression.
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#46
2010 vs. 2023
#47
2007 vs. 2023
#48
2017 vs. 2023
#49
2011 vs. 2023
Arturo De la Rosa 2 years ago
I think in 10 years she will look at this and be able to see that 2023 was a weird year for her.
#50
2011 vs. 2023
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What do you think ?
CrazyKnitter 2 years ago
Agreed. Some were just bad photos, not ugly people.
Load More Replies...
censorshipsucks 2 years ago
Guys it's just aesthetics. Some people are not attractive to some people, and some people find other things attractive. Aesthetics are relative. Go have a look at "The Luncheon on the Grass" by Manet and complain about 1800s beauty standards. Really, what is "beautiful" changes over time and over borders, and even between cities. If someone says a person looks better in the earlier photo, give them a break.
Trish 2 years ago
I'm sorry, I accidentally hit the downvote button. Totally unintentional.
Load More Replies...
BakedKahuna 2 years ago
Wow, this thread was surprisingly disgusting! Not due to the content but due to the comments and mass punishment because someone dared to have an opinion. Yuck.
meepmeep 2 years ago
Um, went through and read the comments, and 90%+ are positive or neutral. Mostly that they look good in both photos or that they like the first one better. What comments were you reading?
Load More Replies...
Anička 2 years ago
Sorry, like 90% of these were 'awkward teenager' to 'adult'. Is it a 'glow up' if you just, you know, GROW up?
C4N1N3T33TH 2 years ago
Yeah that's kind of what a glow up is, growing up into something you consider glowing for yourself
Load More Replies...
Cheyanne Pavan 2 years ago
There are no ugly ducklings in this post. In fact, there are no ugly ducklings anywhere.
Tams21 2 years ago
I hate the term ugly duckling. This whole post is basically saying "wow, he/she used to be so ugly but look at them now".
meepmeep 2 years ago
It's not how they actually look, it's what they think about how they look. It's a matter of confidence and learning to think well of yourself. Anyone can find flaws with how they look, despite no other person ever even thinking about said "flaw". And it's self-care - taking time to take care of yourself physically and mentally
crowspectre (he/they) 2 years ago
Honestly I'd totally fit in this with pre/post transition pictures I look so much better presenting as a guy
Ronnie Cutshall 2 years ago
What happens when you go from bad to worse? That is my case. First involved in crash at 10 that left with three long jagged scar on face. Then in service got a whole lot more scars. Then left leg got scars from panther attack. Then I got crushed between a truck and tree. So far I scare myself some morning. Yet, strangely kids keep wanting to hang out .
similarly 2 years ago
In the words of one of my best friends "Scars are honorable!" They show we've lived.
Load More Replies...
nunya beeswax 2 years ago
What I took from this: - If you wear glasses, get contacts - If you're a dude, grow facial hair and f**k you If you can't - Wait for puberty to be over
Skylar Jaxx 2 years ago
I think this post was a waste of time. People grew up fashions changes it was a out two on the the list where it counted though they weren't "ugly" before.
Bubbles and sparks 2 years ago
Quite the interesting post this one... Beauty, looks, they fade but it is also different for everybody who's looking. For me it was and always will be the eyes and what they show me and a real smile 😁 I've seen so many fake smiles when I still did portrait shoots, and those are honestly so boring, they show no truths... Maybe a tip for those who take (a lot of) selfies, taking a picture with a cellphone that looks up, will put the focus on (the inside of) your nostrils, that is not a good look, same goes for the Duckface... Just be you, relax, your inner you will show and that's real beauty 😊☺️ But then again, that's just my opinion 😁
C4N1N3T33TH 2 years ago
I think y'all aren't realizing, they were ugly ducklings to THEMSELVES, not to us. The people on the post were saying THEY felt like an ugly duckling and now they feel like a swan!
Shawnna Clement 2 years ago
Bad hair/ fashion choices don't make someone an ugly duckling, neither is a baby-face or a bad camera angle. Also, most of the women are posing for the second pics where they know how to accentuate what was already beautiful.
Kieran Dawnshadow 2 years ago
Almost all of them are clearly more at ease with themselves in the second photo. That makes the biggest difference.
Balázs Verő 2 years ago (edited)
More like a "bad photo/good photo of me" thread. Anyway, having a good make-up, haircut, developing style, maturing usually help.
Alicia Gee 2 years ago
What a pointless thread. Everyone just changed their clothes or hair. You all always looked lovely. No need to show off.
GadgetGirl 2 years ago
A lot of the women were "I grew up and became a cold hard b***h" and it doesn't look good on anyone.
CrazyKnitter 2 years ago
Agreed. Some were just bad photos, not ugly people.
Load More Replies... censorshipsucks 2 years ago
Guys it's just aesthetics. Some people are not attractive to some people, and some people find other things attractive. Aesthetics are relative. Go have a look at "The Luncheon on the Grass" by Manet and complain about 1800s beauty standards. Really, what is "beautiful" changes over time and over borders, and even between cities. If someone says a person looks better in the earlier photo, give them a break.
Trish 2 years ago
I'm sorry, I accidentally hit the downvote button. Totally unintentional.
Load More Replies... BakedKahuna 2 years ago
Wow, this thread was surprisingly disgusting! Not due to the content but due to the comments and mass punishment because someone dared to have an opinion. Yuck.
meepmeep 2 years ago
Um, went through and read the comments, and 90%+ are positive or neutral. Mostly that they look good in both photos or that they like the first one better. What comments were you reading?
Load More Replies... Anička 2 years ago
Sorry, like 90% of these were 'awkward teenager' to 'adult'. Is it a 'glow up' if you just, you know, GROW up?
C4N1N3T33TH 2 years ago
Yeah that's kind of what a glow up is, growing up into something you consider glowing for yourself
Load More Replies... Cheyanne Pavan 2 years ago
There are no ugly ducklings in this post. In fact, there are no ugly ducklings anywhere.
Tams21 2 years ago
I hate the term ugly duckling. This whole post is basically saying "wow, he/she used to be so ugly but look at them now".
meepmeep 2 years ago
It's not how they actually look, it's what they think about how they look. It's a matter of confidence and learning to think well of yourself. Anyone can find flaws with how they look, despite no other person ever even thinking about said "flaw". And it's self-care - taking time to take care of yourself physically and mentally
crowspectre (he/they) 2 years ago
Honestly I'd totally fit in this with pre/post transition pictures I look so much better presenting as a guy
Ronnie Cutshall 2 years ago
What happens when you go from bad to worse? That is my case. First involved in crash at 10 that left with three long jagged scar on face. Then in service got a whole lot more scars. Then left leg got scars from panther attack. Then I got crushed between a truck and tree. So far I scare myself some morning. Yet, strangely kids keep wanting to hang out .
similarly 2 years ago
In the words of one of my best friends "Scars are honorable!" They show we've lived.
Load More Replies... nunya beeswax 2 years ago
What I took from this: - If you wear glasses, get contacts - If you're a dude, grow facial hair and f**k you If you can't - Wait for puberty to be over
Skylar Jaxx 2 years ago
I think this post was a waste of time. People grew up fashions changes it was a out two on the the list where it counted though they weren't "ugly" before.
Bubbles and sparks 2 years ago
Quite the interesting post this one... Beauty, looks, they fade but it is also different for everybody who's looking. For me it was and always will be the eyes and what they show me and a real smile 😁 I've seen so many fake smiles when I still did portrait shoots, and those are honestly so boring, they show no truths... Maybe a tip for those who take (a lot of) selfies, taking a picture with a cellphone that looks up, will put the focus on (the inside of) your nostrils, that is not a good look, same goes for the Duckface... Just be you, relax, your inner you will show and that's real beauty 😊☺️ But then again, that's just my opinion 😁
C4N1N3T33TH 2 years ago
I think y'all aren't realizing, they were ugly ducklings to THEMSELVES, not to us. The people on the post were saying THEY felt like an ugly duckling and now they feel like a swan!
Shawnna Clement 2 years ago
Bad hair/ fashion choices don't make someone an ugly duckling, neither is a baby-face or a bad camera angle. Also, most of the women are posing for the second pics where they know how to accentuate what was already beautiful.
Kieran Dawnshadow 2 years ago
Almost all of them are clearly more at ease with themselves in the second photo. That makes the biggest difference.
Balázs Verő 2 years ago (edited)
More like a "bad photo/good photo of me" thread. Anyway, having a good make-up, haircut, developing style, maturing usually help.
Alicia Gee 2 years ago
What a pointless thread. Everyone just changed their clothes or hair. You all always looked lovely. No need to show off.
GadgetGirl 2 years ago
A lot of the women were "I grew up and became a cold hard b***h" and it doesn't look good on anyone.
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