There's something about a new year and new calendar month full of hopes, goals, and dreams placed on one's heart. You may want to "up" your style game, lose a few pounds, or grow your hair to the perfect length among other inspirations. Join the "club" of others who have embarked on a "new year, new me" journey this past January. You aren't alone and it's perfectly normal to want to present your "best" self to the world when you walk out of your door each day.
However, in a world of epic photography and perfected Instagram stories, you may just want to hide your IPhone selfies and forget about your goals of being a prettier version of you. Who can top that latest pic of Cardi B anyway? Believe it or not, the answer is -----you.
But topping Cardi's pic must be in your own unique way and a willingness to adopt self-appreciation - a healthy celebration of your best qualities. Here’s how:
1. Accentuate your most appealing features versus your flaws. For instance, you may dislike the shape of your legs. But instead of becoming fixated on what you think is imperfect, find other body parts that you can be proud of. It might be your beautiful smile or your gorgeous head of hair that stands out. Keep your most complimenting shade of lip gloss around to enhance your signature grin or experiment with new hairstyles that enhance your lovely locs.
2. Resist comparing yourself with your peers. You were not created to look and be just like your bestie since 2nd grade. Your personal style is just that - personal. What's unique to you should stand out versus an imitation of what someone else is doing. Surely, celebrate the "pretty" of others but don't forget to honor yours as well.
3. Be open to taking periodic "breaks" from social media. The average person's time spent on social media continues to increase in a world of Snapchat, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, etc. Lessening your exposure to the world of being “picture-perfect” from time to time is a great way to eliminate “brain overload.” Time spent outside of social media can be used to read a great book, listen to your favorite music, or have meaningful conversations with friends.
4. Understand the importance of your "inner-pretty.” Your value is worth far more than your physical appearance. Taking time to cultivate who you are as a loving, compassionate, and generous member of society can take you far as you pursue your goals and dreams. Avoid the temptation to be so consumed with how you look that you neglect one of the greatest attributes a person could ever have: a kind heart.
Keturah, a past Mentor of Ready by Design, has been in the habit of writing something (short stories, poems, journals) since she was 8-years old. She is a motivator, author, and classroom educator who loves to cook for her husband and daughter who are her biggest taste-testers. She can be found at www.HealthyRelationshipsNetwork.com.