Throughout life, and especially in college, I've run into people who put on a happy facade, a mask for other people, but who have debilitating insecurities about themselves when no one is looking. They go home and look at themselves in the mirror, or think about the things they've said/done wrong, or compare themselves to other people. They think about how they want to be a different person, anyone else because they're not happy with who they are.

I'm here to tell you that we all have those moments when we're not happy with ourselves, but let them be moments, not your whole existence. A moment where you want to be better, then realize that you are better. You're better than the person you were 5 years ago, or even a few months ago. Don't let your insecurities define you. Let your friends and family lift you up and show you that you are wanted, loved, and treasured. They won't tell you that all the time, but that love is constantly there.

And think: If someone else can love you this much, can't you do the same for yourself? It's hard to realize your worth sometimes and if it's something you battle with, it's an uphill climb every day, but it's one worth fighting. Leave encouraging notes around your room for the bad days, and revel in the good ones. Let people help you; don't tell them you're fine if you're not. Let people tell you that you're beautiful, handsome, funny, smart, or fun and believe them.

Loving yourself can be hard sometimes, but it's something worth doing.