Growing up, we often learn that it is important to value ourselves and ignore harsh judgments that may come our way. I am fortunate enough to have parents who never let me question my worth and always lift me up when I’m feeling down. Despite my family’s constant praise and admiration, I still feel as though I can be better. I have often felt as though I wasn’t good enough, that there is always someone better looking than me, smarter than me, or more outgoing than me, and guess what? There is. It is important to not focus on others but to focus on you. I know it is sometimes hard to love yourself especially in a world where body shaming occurs way too often and women are held up to a standard that is basically impossible to achieve, but try. You are your own worst critic, you may not be perfect but no one is.
It can be difficult to love yourself but when I am feeling low I look to the one thing that lifts me back up, a verse in the bible that resonates in each and every one of us.
I am fearfully and wonderfully made -- Psalm 139:14
I have not always been religious but in the past few years, I have found that when no one else is around, I can always turn to God to listen and no matter what I am without a doubt, fearfully and wonderfully made. I have my best friend to thank for helping me find the Lord and I cannot thank her enough. This verse is one that makes me realize how important I am, not just in the eyes of God but also to myself.
You are set on this earth for a reason. We are all made differently and will ultimately take different paths in our lives, so why would we compare one person to another? Each one of us is beautiful, unique, and intelligent. Focus on yourself, not others. Don’t rely on someone else to make you happy, find something you have a passion for and put everything you have into it. It doesn’t matter if you’re the best, if it contributes to your happiness, then that is all that matters. Be selfish, put yourself first and take time out of your day to check in with yourself. Look at the people around you; if they’re not helping you, they’re hurting you. Surround yourself with positive energy, happy people, and good company. The friends who will sit and listen to you for hours and you can tell anything to and feel comfortable with are the most important to have around. I have been lucky enough to find these people in my sorority sisters and lifelong friends. Remember to never lower your standards for anyone.
It is ok to live and learn, that’s how we become stronger. I have had my ups and downs, made choices I regret and taken the wrong path in life but none of that matters. I realized my mistakes and made changes to ensure I am the best version of myself. No one else gets to decide your worth, remember that. Life may be about taking risks and dealing with the consequences, but when it comes to your happiness, that’s a risk you should not be willing to take.
