(( OOC: Instead of picking apart the things you don’t like about yourself, because everyone has things they don’t like, focus on the things that you do like.
When you look in the mirror, pick out the things you like and emphasize those things, then shove the self-critical bull-shit aside. Tearing yourself down or putting emphasis on the negative will never lead to anything but more negative. You can’t change your opinions on the negative until you get into the habit of appreciating yourself and seeing the positive.
Take care of yourself, eat food that will keep your body healthy, wear things that make you feel attractive (or comfortable), get ready for the day and get going.
Being happy with your appearance can only do so much for you though. Personality and accomplishments/talents, along with how you treat others, is also incredibly important in building self love.
If there’s an aspect of yourself that you don’t like… something you do that you’re not happy with, change it. People so often get into the mindset of excusing certain personality traits because “that’s just the way I am”.
As human beings, we are ever-changing… if there was no room for change, then it would be impossible to progress. We can change pretty much every aspect of ourselves, it’s called adapting and growing. If there’s something you want to improve on (for example: being more driven, or kind, or patient), you can make it happen in your own way.
Do things that make you feel productive, active and accomplished. Set little goals for yourself and work towards them. Expand your horizons, step out of your comfort zones, and work on improving your skills and talents. Don’t let insecurities keep you from trying.
Don’t compare yourself to others or tear yourself down in order to lift someone up ( example: saying “You’re so much prettier than I am, I’ll never look like that” when you could simply say ”You’re beautiful”). Nothing good ever comes from comparing, because no matter what we do, we can never be anyone else.
Accept compliments. Be willing to take in the good things that other’s see in you.
Focus on something other than yourself. It’s so easy to get caught up in your own misery or self-loathing… so stop putting so much weight on your appearance and the traits you don’t like, and start focusing on bringing happiness to those around you. Treating others well, and experiencing that feeling of stepping out of your own self-interests and giving to others, can help you recognize your worth.
Confidence is nothing more than a mindset. It’s a habit, it takes practice.
Now, I’m not saying that I do all of these things all of the time, because I definitely do not, but I have been able to experience both ends of the spectrum, confidence and a complete lack of self-love. When I’ve reached those low-points, focusing on positivity and improvement has helped me pull myself out of the pit and move on. So focus on the good and let the rest go. ))
misterjazzmaster 