Loving yourself is not an easy thing to do, especially in this day of age. Society gives us this mindset that we have to act and look like a certain way to fit in. As a 19-year-old female, I completely understand. I would always put this label on myself telling myself I wasn't good enough or I'll never make it in life. While I'm still guilty of this, I've learned ways to decrease these feelings and learn how to love myself for who I am.
Stop comparing yourself to other people.
It's that time of year again, the Olympics. Now, what does this have to do with comparing yourselves to others? I watch all of these gymnasts, soccer players, swimmers and all these different athletes. While watching them, the only thing I think in my mind is, Why can't I look like that? Why can't I be that talented? During commercial breaks I'll scroll down my Instagram feed and think "Wow why can't I be as pretty as that girl?" Well, to be realistic here, you can never change yourself by just looking at someone and saying how much you want to be like them. Instead, focus on yourself. Focus on the great qualities you have that others don't have. God created each and every one of us to be our own individual people.
Exercise.
Getting yourself up to exercise is probably one of the hardest things to do, especially when you can just sit in your bed and watch Netflix all day. I'll be the the one to tell you to get your rear off that couch and head straight for the gym. If you can't hit the gym, go outside and take a run. Too cold? Turn your house into a gym. Don't have the equipment? Be creative! Run up and down the stairs a bunch of times. Watch a workout video. It may seem tiring, but trust me -- you will feel better than sitting on your couch all day. That feeling after you finish a good work out is always the best, and you will feel 110 percent more content after accomplishing something. As a matter of fact, it is known to reduce feelings of depression. Not only will you feel good, but you'll look good too!
Embrace your flaws.
Let me fill you in on a little secret: everyone has flaws -- including superstars like Taylor Swift and Harry Styles. There's always things you are going to dislike about yourself, and that's okay. Sometimes we can't change them. It's so easy to use these flaws and let them tear you apart. Believe it or not, your flaws make you beautiful; so don't be afraid to embrace them.
Be your # 1 fan.
Loving yourself does not come from other people. It comes from you. Don't be afraid to cheer yourself on or get excited when you accomplish something big. Sometimes you just need to be your own cheerleader. Tell yourself that you are worth it. Tell yourself that you are beautiful. Believe it or not, these comments will mean more coming from yourself than from other people.
Always remember that loving yourself is not an easy process, and will take time. Like anything else, the end result is always worth it. You will feel much better about yourself. Don't be afraid to let your confidence shine. Now, Go look at yourself in the mirror and smile. Don't say anything -- just take a deep breath and smile. Be happy with who you are and embrace your unique qualities.
