For the longest time I liked to think that I knew it all, as most young people do, but as it turns out, I don't. Coming to this realization has been really great for me (and my mom). I've learned to accept things that I can't change and that it's okay to make mistakes.
And while I don't have everything (or really anything) figured out I am still living my best life. Of course I have more to learn, experience, and do, but for the first time in a very long time I am happy. This new sense of happiness stems from a lot of self-reflection, a lot. I have spent the last six or so months putting myself first and only focusing on me. At first people called me selfish, and I started to believe them.
Until one day I realized that these people believed that I thought of myself as higher than them, a bigger priority. Which is partially true, I did see myself as a huge priority, and I should. I'm approaching one of the greatest decades of my life and I'm ready to be confident and sure of myself, entirely.
But, that does not mean that I think I'm higher than anyone. It's actually the opposite. In order to see the need to prioritize yourself that means that at one point you saw yourself as lower, less equal. Being able to realize this and then being willing to work on it is monumental and overwhelming.
There's so much more to life than posting pictures to grab someone's attention. Waiting on them to DM you is ridiculous, and basing an entire lifetime around a device that can be lost in a crowd is childish. Now is the time to be putting yourself first and learning about yourself.
One of the most influential compliments I have ever received was "you're sure of yourself." At the time I didn't grasp the importance of this but now I value this trait more than anything. I am sure of myself. I know what I want and what I don't, and more importantly I know how to stand up for myself.
I am able to use my voice.
These are essential as a young woman and I hope to help other girls get there. I want young women every where to value themselves and to stop placing their happiness in the hands of others. When you have confidence, you have it all.
Take time for yourself. Invest in yourself and things that will make YOU feel better. Because it will, and you'll feel really great.
