Very few people can say they are 100% confident in who they are - me included. Still, I'm definitely more confident in who I am today than I was last year.
In the past year, I didn't have a major life-altering experience. I just took little steps to appreciate who I was, rather than idolizing the person I thought I wanted to be.
So, let me help you! Here are 5 steps to help you love that person in the mirror (because he/she is fierce, and the only you there is):
1. Stop editing your pictures beyond recognition.
I'll admit, apps to edit my appearance before my pictures hit social media used to be my best friend. But, I soon started to try loving the girl in the pictures. She was no longer me anymore. I was about ten pounds heavier, three inches shorter, and two shades lighter than the girl in those pictures. When I realized that, I started losing what little self-confidence I had to begin with. Changing your appearance on social media doesn't just distort what you look like, but also distorts how you feel about yourself (even though you are trying to make yourself feel better).
2. Start making a to-do list.
When you're not confident in yourself, you can sometimes feel you can't accomplish anything. Making a to-do list will not only remind you what you need to do but will also show you how much you actually accomplish every day. Even on days where you feel like you didn't do anything right, you can see that you got five things done that were weighing on you! And THAT is a pretty great feeling.
3. Get moving!
I'm sorry. I know you were probably hoping this wasn't on the list. But hear me out! I'm not saying you should exercise to lose weight or get toned. I'm saying you should get moving to release endorphins! If you don't know what endorphins are, they are basically hormones released by your brain that are linking to stress relief (and are known to make you happy!) So, if exercise isn't your thing, go for a walk with your pet or friends! Or swim a few laps! There are so many ways to get moving that don't involve a treadmill.
4. Have a "treat yo-self" day.
Whether you do this one time, once a month, once a year, whatever- it'll make you feel like a million bucks. Put on a face mask! Binge watch that show you thought looked good! Take yourself out for dinner at your favorite restaurant! Treating yourself will make you start to realize that you deserve those special things and that sounds like a step in the right direction to me.
5. Look your best.
For yourself, of course! Wear your favorite outfit, do your hair in a new style, or throw on some makeup! Whatever makes you happy! If you feel you look good, you'll feel good, too.
