You know those times your parents or teachers said, “Everyone is beautiful or unique in their own way”? You may have rolled your eyes or found it cheesy, but it is true! When you have a great perception of yourself, you are more attractive to others and you also build up a higher self-esteem. Confidence is sexy. Don’t you find confidence sexy?
Studies have shown that teens with high self-esteem are happier, make friends more easily, and are more likely to make the right decisions for their body. This includes making the right sexual decisions, such as delaying sexual activity until you’re ready, getting tested, using protection, and having the courage to communicate with your partner about sexual boundaries.
Our bodies go through a lot of changes after puberty, and sometimes this takes a toll on your self-confidence. Building good body image doesn’t mean changing the way you look or act. What really matters is that you concentrate on having a positive attitude toward yourself. When it comes to your body, don’t hate - Congratulate!
Here are some tips for building great body image:
- Say Positive Things to Yourself When You Look in the Mirror. Everyone has unique physical qualities, and it is important to recognize them to build a constructive perception of your body. Take the time to look in the mirror each day and appreciate your great smile or fabulous hair! For more ideas, read positive body affirmations by clicking here.
- Take the Time to do Nice Things for Yourself. Nourishing your body with healthy foods, taking a fun trip with friends, or reading a new book are all activities you can do to value yourself and build a positive relationship with your body.
- Stay Active. Exercise improves your mood, relieves stress, and gives you extra energy to ace those tough exams! Whether it's through volleyball, soccer, or going to your local gym- being active makes you feel good, and it makes you look good to yourself and others.
- Set Goals and Take Pride in Your Accomplishments. Setting academic or personal goals are a great way to feel positive. Rather than focusing on perfection-which is impossible for anyone to achieve-make realistic goals, and feel proud when you accomplish them.
Negative body image can lead to depression, anxiety, or a loss of interest in school, activities, and friends. If the problem feels too big to handle alone, reach out to an adult you trust such as a counselor, teacher, or family member.
- You can also call a teen crisis hotline:
- Teen Line:
- (310) 855-HOPE (4673)
- (800) TLC-TEEN (852-8336) (toll-free in California only)
- Youth American Hotline:
- 1-877-YOUTHLINE (1-877-968-8454)
- Teen Line: