Short messages on Self-esteem and body confidence issues from Respect Yourself, the guidance site for young people to help make good decisions in life.
You can achieve body confidence by having a realistic and positive body image. You can read our previous messages on body image in our Body Image category.
Change the way you speak so you focus on “who” you are, not “what” you are – that helps others too. Focus on positives.
If you define yourself by what others think of you, you’ll never keep up. “Who I am” has to come from within.
Body confidence is a skill that you can learn like any other, through practice. It’s a mindset about accepting the body you’ve been given, and creating a positive, supportive mindset and attitude.
Finding it hard to talk about how you are really feeling? Samaritans is a safe place to turn; it’s anonymous and confidential: 08457 90 90 90 or jo@samaritans.org .
If someone compliments you, that doesn’t make you a better person. Your value remains unchanged, because it’s something that comes from within.
If you base your self-worth on how often people compliment and validate you, then you’re allowing others to decide how you feel about yourself.
You don’t need anyone’s approval. Just because someone isn’t happy with you doesn’t mean you’ve done something wrong. In many cases, it’s often that the person isn’t happy with themselves.
If something is troubling you, Samaritans are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. All chats are completely confidential. You can reach them on 08457 90 90 90 or jo@samaritans.org .
Learn to love your Self – the only person you can guarantee will be with you at all times through all situations for all of your life.