How I did it: Everyone, everywhere, has ways of looking at everyone else. When you walk into a crowded room, people notice you. It feels like they're judging you, so you automatically take the attention away from your thighs, or your nose, or your stomach, or wherever else you're self concious about.

God, it took me so long, but I finally was able to stop hiding things about myself by surrounding myself with people who encouraged me. My boyfriend, Ben, constantly tells me how beautiful both my body and my mind is, and because of him I'm able to accept myself because I know that no matter how I see me, he still loves me for who I am.

My friends also help encourage me. They fuel my silliness and laugh at my mildly sarcastic sense of humor, rather than discourage it. It took me a long time to find friends like I have now.

Mostly, it's the people around me that help me be myself. I love them, and finally, I love me.

Lessons & tips: Surround yourself with people who encourage you and that don't expect you to be something you're not.
Get involved in things you care about. Plan a party. Take a class. Just have fun.

May 09, 09:11AM PDT | 0 comments | 3 cheers