With the summer months coming up and the pressure to look good, it can be a daunting time for people of all ages. The tears girls endure as they try to squeeze into a bikini they bought last year, the sighs of exasperation from boys as they realize their body is not like Zac Efron's are just a few of the many things that young people feel during the summer months.

First of all, don’t say you hate yourself. You know it’s not true. You may look in the mirror and notice every little flaw on your body and think, “Wow, I’m disgusting.” In reality, people don’t pay attention to the flaws you think you may have. They look at the things that make you beautiful and special. They pay attention to the tiny details that make you the beautiful person you are.

Second of all, nobody is perfect. And that’s OK! Even the girls who have “perfect” bodies and “flawless” skin and the guys who have perfectly sculpted abs have insecurities too. You have to look past your flaws and focus on the things that you’re proud of and what make you unique.

I know it can be tough having confidence in yourself. I think we've all had moments of low self-esteem, myself included. But having a positive attitude is a good step in the direction of gaining confidence. Don't be afraid to tell yourself you look good in something, especially if you know you do! In addition, don't be afraid to wear something, even if society says you can't. If you want to wear a crop top, go for it! Wear what makes you happy, not what others dictate you are "allowed" to wear.

The most important thing to remember is to be true to yourself. Don't change for anybody else. So whether you want to stay how you are, or change to improve yourself, you are beautiful. Every single person reading this is beautiful, inside and out. Love yourself, and cherish the things about you that make you different from everyone else!