I've always been the big girl ever since middle school and even though it brought on some hard times and negative thoughts, I think it helped me become the person I am today.

Summer has always been my least favorite season. First of all, it's super hot and humid and second, I am forced to wear revealing clothes that show off parts of my body that I don't want to be exposed to the world.

Growing up, I would be the person wearing long jeans or a long sleeved shirt outside because I hated my legs and arms. I was always questioned about why I would wear what I did and it was hard to admit that it was because I was ashamed of my body and what other people would say about it. I could never even wear a tank top without something on top of it to cover my arms.

I think because I now surrounded myself with positive people and friends who support me to no end I've found the courage to embrace who I am and my body. It took a lot of love and self-reflection but I got to the point in my life where wearing a tank top out in public didn't scare the living crap out of me.

So here is my advice to that girl out there who has to spend hours planning out what she is going to wear the next day in order not to look like a lumpy potato.

The first thing is to love yourself. I know this is such a cliche line and it's hard to look at those words and really break down the deeper meaning behind it. But I promise you there is more weight to those words than you might think.

Plus it never hurts to make goals to improve yourself. It's not a sign of weakness or not accepting you for who you are. It's just trying to show your best self and doing it for the health.

Another important aspect to looking your best this summer is to find clothes that fit and flatter your body type. Everyone is different and some articles of clothing may look better on some people than others. Like I know for me, rompers would never work because my body proportions are too weird for them, plus my legs are not my best asset. But high waisted jeans and shorts are perfect because my tummy makes too much of a muffin top. Do a little bit of shopping and find your favs.

Bathing suits can also me a daunting item this summer. Don't be afraid to try on a two piece for the first time! There are tons of options now for plus size women that cover just the right amount but can also look super sexy.

Just go explore your options and never be ashamed because you are you and there is nothing anyone can say to make you feel less than.

Find the courage.