How I did it: I stopped worrying about being ugly or pretty. I looked in the mirror every time I went into a room that had one and told myself, "you are beautiful." I never really had body image issues as a child. I knew that I was pretty, I just didn't like the type of pretty that I was. Being bi-racial growing up in a predominately caucasian little hillbilly town took a toll on my ego, but by the time I reached my senior year in high school i realized that I'm the shit. That's about all there is to it. Don't worry about clothes, or the color of your hair, or who your friends are. It doesn't take a lot to feel pretty, especially if you have people in your life who tell you you're pretty all the damn time. My relatives would tell me constantly, but the people at school wouldn't, so I felt ugly. Your family is never going to lie to you. If I left the house lookin' throwed, my mom would tell me. You just gotta keep remindin' yourself, "what they say doesn't matter." 

Lessons & tips: The only tip I have is to just think you're better than the people who call you ugly, don't think you're pretty, etc. You're too good for them. You're amazing, you're awesome, you're gorgeous. Confidence, not cockiness is the key, however. I am confident, but I am far from arrogant. Be humble, but be stern. 

Resources: Every now and again I would put on make-up and get really dressed up when I went out with my friends. Not anything too heavy, but some foundation and powder, eyeliner, mascara, neutral shadow colors, a nice blouse and some jeans. It makes you feel good when you go out and you know you look good. It helps you to be yourself!

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Sep 20, 11:20AM PDT | 1 comment | 7 cheers