Hello,

It's strange, how many mirrors I have in my room, how many times I ask people how I could improve, and how many thoughts run through my head questioning if I'm liked. Confidence, it's strange -- strange that confidence is something I struggle with, yet that doesn't mean I don't have it. Loaded like a pirate's cannon, my confidence is bursting. It has to be, sometimes you don't have a choice.

Things happen, life happens, and something forces you to grow up -- welcome to your reality check. Life events occur, simple events that have to happen and without a little faith in yourself, you won't succeed. However, most actions are easier said than done. Confidence, it's not something that is easily established yet it is so easily torn down; that being said please don't let this be a discouragement.

Strive to have confidence and love yourself. There are so many obstacles standing in your way, whether it be societal expectations, social media, some mean girls, or even someone who was close to you. Don't let those things tear you down but like I said some things are easier said than done. Yet, I urge you to do it because I promise you it is worth it. Have confidence in every way possible through every way possible -- the little ways and the big ways, just make it work.

How? Well, I can offer some insight as toward how I went about accomplishing this task though not complete. Yet I still have a long journey ahead of me, I've learned a few pieces of knowledge that have helped me persevere.

Invest in yourself. Do something for you. We are often so caught up in life's responsibilities that we are too busy to even consider a little pampering. Pampering can be anything from relaxing under the shining sun or hiking through the thick pine wood forests. Whatever tickles your fancy, but do something that is healthy for both your body and mind. Hiking and exercise are always a great energy booster but you could go the polar opposite and spend the evening sunset lost in some novel's adventure. Do something that exhausts your heart's content and leaves you smiling.

Push yourself past your limits -- or what you believe to be your limits. Often those lacking self-confidence already have this cloud of doubt. With that being said, if you think you cannot do something, then try it -- if makes you feel uneasy, you're probably doing it right. Make changes that you wouldn't dare consider and they might prove worth it to the path you travel in life. These changes force you to adjust to your discomfort and surpass the challenges you must overcome. Embrace it and know that you can do anything -- otherwise, you wouldn't even have been given the chance.

Love who you are in the morning -- dragon breath, messy hair, eye goop and all. Every morning when you wake up, make yourself smile. Listen to some bumpin' music with the windows rolled out and sing your heart out. Stay positive, or try to -- build yourself up and carry an optimistic view of your day.

Confidence, like I said is easier said than done. Keep striving and working through your doubts. If it is something that was easily earned, then it would not be worth it. Take your time and take pride in the little accomplishments. Find beauty in yourself and carry it on your shoulders with pride.

Sincerely,

Someone who has been there, who is still there