When some people see my computer screen, they ask me what OS I'm running, or "Is that Linux?". I find it hard to answer that question well, because any short answer won't explain what they're seeing.

To answer, I should unpack:

• that the concepts of taskbar, system tray, notifications, file explorer, window manager, even hotkey daemon and desktop wallpaper, are not tied to OS, but all separate programs
• that many Linux distributions can look identical; they differ in the nerdy details but rarely the visual – and that's not to say they all look the same way, but there are a thousand ways any of them can look, so nothing is determined by which Linux distribution you've got
• to me, the most salient part of what I've got on screen tends to be Emacs, but again, its appearance isn't unique among text editors – it's just text on a background, and I can color the text and the background any way I like
  • there may also be eye-candy – that's not Emacs, that's just some other programs I've got

• Observe your body without making any judgements.
• Acknowledge when you don’t feel good about your body, but don’t put yourself down for it.
• Focus on what your body can achieve, and celebrate that.

• Start using Alternatives to beauty-based compliments
  • In fact, don't ever comment on someone's appearance, positively or negatively, unless they ask for your opinion. Not even if they're the hottest person you've ever seen.
    • You can compliment what they did with their hair though.
    • Especially don't make it a compliment that someone lost weight. It's just retroactive body-shaming, plus, it's unnecessary when you could just have a conversation like "Hey, you've lost weight, doing something new? … Do you feel good?"

From everydayfeminism.com/2014/06/dont-call-me-beautiful/

Appearance is often the go-to compliment for women, which should tell you how much gender influences even our most initial judgments and perceptions. In lieu of commenting on the physical, focus your attention on attributes less associated with gender.

Here’s a handy list of some examples you can try:

“I love your enthusiasm” – this shows the other person that you’re reading their mood and that you’re receptive to positive energy.

“You’re looking vivacious today” – again, emphasis on the positive without relying on femininity. Everyone likes being told they’re full of life.

“You look confident” – upbeat reinforcement with the added bonus of a self-esteem boost.

“I admire the energy you contribute” – because it’s always good to be acknowledged as bringing something to the table of everyday life.

“You’re so much fun to be around” – reminding them that their presence matters and is appreciated.

[…]

Let’s face it: Even in its most flattering context, beauty is predictable. Choosing these alternate phrases conveys a more genuine interest in everything the person has to offer.

Also: Try to explain how something they did fulfilled one of your needs. People like hearing that.