For young ladies, having and keeping self-esteem is tough; especially in our day and age. It can be hard to scroll through social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram without comparing ourselves to other people. Sometimes we wish we could have what other girls have and think less of ourselves. In our daily lives we may worry about what others think about us. Even the media, music and movie industries tells us that we should be prettier, skinner, smarter, more talented. Clothing and cosmetic companies target these insecurities in hopes we will buy their products. How do we overcome these feelings of self-doubt and combat the societal messages that we aren't enough? By having self-confidence. But beware, it's easier said than done. In my opinion, learning to have and keep self-confidence is one of the most rewarding and beneficial things in life.
First of all, what is self-confidence? It is defined as, "a feeling of trust in one's abilities, qualities, and judgment." Doesn't this sound awesome? A trust in yourself. This means not only having confidence in our looks, but also in what we can do & think. It also includes being happy with the person we are. Keep in mind that while having confidence is important, there is a line between arrogance and humility. So how does one go about building self-confidence? Most of us aren't born with confidence, but we have the power to improve! Here are a few tips for becoming more self-confident:
-reflect on strengths and things you’re good at
-set goals for the future
-do a good deed
-SMILE :)
-surround yourself with others who are confident
-don’t allow obstacles to affect the way you see yourself
-believe that you can do something if you put your mind to it
-be okay with being embarrassed
-shake off the haters and naysayers
-stay positive
I encourage you to keep working on developing your self-confidence, whether you have a lot or a little. Know it won't happen overnight because you will be growing and learning about yourself for the rest of your life. With these tips and by practicing self-confidence, hopefully when scrolling through social media sites you will not think about what others have; but instead about what you have been blessed with and what you can do. I think we all deserve to be someone who feels confident in her own skin, in her abilities, and in her smarts.
Lastly, here are some awesome words about self-confidence, some from a few empowering women.
"Don't waste your energy on trying to change opinions. Do your thing and don't care if they don't like it." Tina Fey
"You have to believe in yourself when no one else does - that's what makes you a winner right there." Venus Williams
"I don't like to gamble, but if there's one thing I'm willing to bet on, it's myself." Beyonce
"A flower doe not think of competing with the flower next to it. It just blooms."
"Since when did self-confidence become arrogance? When did self-depreciation become modesty?" Ronda Rousey
"If you can dance and be free and not embarrassed, you can rule the world." Amy Poehler
"Confidence is not 'They will like me.' Confidence is 'I'll be fine if they don't.'"
