HOW TO STOP BEING INSECURE

Growing up, I was always aware of my body. I can't remember when it started, but somewhere along the line, the mirror became a tool for criticism rather than just a reflection. Every morning, It was the same old routine - checking, going over, and making a mental note of everything I wished I could change.

I remember being in middle school, surrounded by all these awesome girls who seemed to have everything figured out and put together. They had the perfect clothes, the perfect aura and of course, the perfect bodies—or so it seemed to me. They all seemed like Barbies to me, and I felt like an extra. I wasn't fat or anything, but I wasn't super skinny either. 

Trying on clothes was the worst. It always seemed like no matter what I wore, I felt like I looked a bit on the heavier side 😟. I always found myself trying to figure out which outfit would hide my stomach or magically make me thinner. 

Being insecure isn't just about your appearance; it's about how you feel. it's the constant comparison, the annoying voice in your head that keeps saying, “You’re not good enough.” It’s feeling like everyone’s watching you, judging you, even when they aren’t. It's always wearing baggy outfits just to feel less conscious of yourself. I'd spend hours searching for an outfit that didn't make me look like I just gave birth to an elephant.

You know those moments when you're scrolling through Instagram and everyone seems to have flawless skin, thin legs, and perfect hair? and you just start thinking, " I wish I could like that" Turns out it's all an illusion, one we see every day- on TV, social media, and in magazines. It took me a long time to figure that out, and I’m still working on it. There are days when I feel great about myself, and then there are days when I look at myself in the mirror and immediately start criticizing my appearance. 

So, I've made the decision to be nicer to myself. Instead of focusing on the things I don't like about myself, I try to focus on the things I do like about myself. I still feel insecure sometimes, and maybe I always will be to some extent. But, I'm getting better at shrugging it off and accepting the fact that I'm not perfect, and I'm totally okay with that.

"Of course, it's not always that simple, so here are some helpful tips that I've learned along the way:

1. Find outfits that suit you and make you feel good: Stop trying to follow silly trends and focus on what makes you comfortable and confident.
2. Stop comparing yourself to others: Saying stuff like "I wish I was as skinny as her" can mess with how you see yourself.
3. Surround yourself with positive people: Hang out with people who boost your confidence rather than bring it down.
4. Accept your flaws: Try to accept the way you are and accept that you're not perfect.
5. Stop trying to impress others: stop seeking validation from people and thinking of what people would say.

So, how do you usually handle those self-conscious moments? Any suggestions to help boost self-confidence? 😎