Some media outlets have been making girls feel like they need to look just like the women they see on television and in photographs with Photoshop edits, make up and the old thigh gap. Many young girls develop low self-esteem, and even hate themselves, because they don’t look like these women. This is sad, but true! Despite the media’s depiction of “beauty”, young girls must seek out ways to boost their self-esteem and begin to love the skin they’re in. Here are some tips to help you get started on strengthening your confidence.

First, you should surround yourself with people that love you for who you are. Be friends with people that praise your good qualities and talents, and drop those negative Nelly’s.

Next, make a list of all the things you like about yourself including special skills, experiences, physical attributes, talents and social resources. Make sure the list details any and everything that makes you feel good about yourself. Keep this list with you at all times, so when you are feeling down, you can take a look at it.

Use your mirror to survey your reflection and find all of the things you love about your appearance such as your lips, your hair, your smile and your body. Also, pick out things related to your style such as your clothes, your shoes and your stance.

Remind yourself of all the problems you have faced, tackled and conquered. Take on a new challenge; prove to yourself that you”CAN” rather than you can’t.

One thing that is MOST important is to Stop Comparing Yourself to Others! Stop comparing yourself to your friends because everyone is made differently. For instance, your body. Many pictures are photoshopped and edited to make the the person in the photo look perfect. Keep this in mind when trying to lose/gain weight. Some weight may look great on your friend, but be very unhealthy for you.

These things may sound a little hard, but this is a journey you have to be willing to take. Changing low self-esteem to high self-esteem takes time, trial-and-error, and patience on your part. Always remember, believe in your own self worth, and be proud, happy and always love who you are! I wish you all the best of luck. You can do anything you set your mind to.

Regine Amos, Staff Writer