Have you noticed that you and your friends seem to be growing in different ways? Suddenly your best friend Rachel towers over you, her long legs fitting just perfectly in her new tight jeans? Or maybe your friend Lynn has, well, filled out her tank tops, turning boys' heads, while you are still waiting for mother nature to arrive? Emma's hair is oh so silky and Cindy's stomach is naturally tanned and flat as a board! Are you feeling like an ugly duckling in a room full of swans? And worse yet, does hanging around your friends suddenly make you feel uncomfortable!
"No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." These wise, ageless words were spoken by Eleanor Roosevelt, wife of former American President Theodore Roosevelt. Mrs. Roosevelt's message is straightforward and personal. If you feel inferior, then others will see you that way. However, if you believe in yourself, in your own style, personality and beauty, then the world will see you the same way.
Easier said than done, right?
So how do you go about feeling beautiful when you're surrounded by magazine covers of breathtaking models, sexy movie stars and, of course, those almost perfect-looking girls in gym class? Well, start by taking stock of yourself.
What about yourself do you like best? Come on, everyone has something they like! Do you have great hair? Cool, big eyes? Long, thin legs? Accentuate the positive. Choose clothing that shows off your fine points. Spend extra time on your hair. Add a tasteful new eye shadow to your lids. Then stand up tall and strut your stuff.
Take a good hard look at yourself and be realistic about those features that bother you. Are you suffering from a bit of teen acne? Are you still carrying around some baby fat? Then take action. It may seem effortless, but even the most exquisite models work long and hard on their looks. Curb your snacking and stick to 3 healthy meals per day, or start a skincare routine. You'll see a difference in your looks and you'll feel empowered because you've taken control of a problem (as you see it!).
Talk to your mum, a favourite teacher or a friend. Chances are you'll find that everyone feels inadequate about some aspect of their looks. You're not alone. You'll also be pleasantly surprised to learn that all women go through an awkward stage. (and come out of it as beauties!)
Believe in your inner beauty! Oh, it may sound corney, but it works. Beauty truly is only skin deep. A winning personality, intellect and kindness add an outer glow to every teen. Let the real you shine through. Not only will you feel beautiful but you'll look better too.
Exercise and watch your diet. A healthy teen is a beautiful teen. Try to add a little more exercise into your day. Then, since you are what you eat...eat a balanced diet. Would you rather shine like a delicious red apple or a greasy bag of chips? Exercise and diet makes your blood flow and creates a healthy glow to your complexion.
No one can make you feel bad, if you don't let them. Right? Stay strong. Believe in yourself and others will follow. If you think you're "all that," then you are!
