I feel like this time of year drags on endlessly… It’s March already, still chilly, with no warmth in sight. The weather often has an effect on our moods, whether we acknowledge it or not. When things are not going right in life anyway, paired with the gloomy weather, you can feel down and not like yourself.

It is difficult to get out of that low. Whether you are experiencing friend trouble, hard classes, or a series of little inconveniences piled onto your busy life, it is so important to stay true to yourself.

I am writing this post because I want to share with you what I do to get out of the low of pain, negativity, and self-doubt. I have experienced serious hurt recently and am still waiting anxiously for college decision letters. However, I have grown in self-confidence throughout senior year, and that allows me to not only get through this difficult time, but grow in grace and self-compassion as well.

For those things in life that we cannot control, like a fight with a peer, a friend’s bad vibes, or anything that has to do with what others think of us, it is vital for our sanity to separate self-image from emotions. Our self-confidence has absolutely everything to do with our individual self and accomplishments and absolutely nothing to do with social status or friends’ opinions. When we are able to separate what we think of ourselves from how we feel, our self-confidence will not be lowered after someone drops a rude comment or anxiety engulfs the day.

Easier said than done. So how do we do it? How do we remember all the reasons why we love ourselves, and keep that self-esteem steadily rising?

Below are my favorite ways to remind myself that I am who I am, and I can be who I am without fear.

1.The easiest and quickest way to feel confident about who you are is to talk to someone who knows you and loves you completely. For me, I know I will always be loved and adored by my family members, particularly my sisters and grandma. Whomever makes you feel good about yourself (and is a trusted source) is only a call away – sometimes just having a normal conversation with someone who appreciates you is enough to positively change your thoughts. If not, take a deep breath, and admit to what you’re struggling with. Accept advice. Accept help. Your whole world starts with you.

2.Another way I remind myself that I am perfectly made is to watch my favorite movie. Mamma Mia is my go-to. The strong and beautiful personalities of Donna and Sophie remind me that I do not have to be perfect, or always put together, or always have the answers to still be my best self. I can show up, I can smile, or make someone else smile, and feel accomplished.

My newest favorite movie (come on… who has just one favorite anything?) is Bohemian Rhapsody. Freddie and Queen itself did not fit in… because all the great ones never do.

3.Finally, the 100% best way to show self-compassion and self-love is to talk to the One who loves us most.

The same God who made us with all our imperfections and flaws, who has seen us at our worst, and who had to allow obstacles in our lives to strengthen us, loves us entirely without expecting anything in return. We are loved so fully, so completely by God. All we have to do is open our hearts to Him.

In my experience, everything happens for a reason. It takes our faith being challenged to strengthen it because God will not cause pain without the promise of happiness (Romans 8:1).

When I feel that my faith is being challenged, I pray, journal, or listen to Lauren Daigle or Oceans (Where Feet May Fail). These purposeful acts calm my soul and reassure my heart.

I want to end this post with my favorite Bible verse:

“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord. ‘Plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”

Jeremiah 29:11

xx

k.c.

Below are some of my favorite inspirational wallpapers. Feel free to share 🙂

Pic creds go to vsco & Google Images