It can be really hard to like yourself at times. Social media doesn’t make it an easier. Its easy to see Sarah’s vacation pics on Twitter or Ben’s selfie on Facebook and become jealous. You might not have the money to take awesome vacations, or feel like you never measure up to how good Ben looks in all his selfies. It can be easy to see what’s going on in people’s lives and wonder ‘what’s wrong with me?’
In those moments, you might feel tempted to do things to make others like you better. You might fall into the trap of acting differently, wearing different clothes or being extra flirty with the opposite sex. Trying to act a certain way or change your appearance to get others to like you never turns out good in the end. Here are a few reasons why you should be true to who you are:
- You are happier – Changing who you are to gain acceptance will always make you live with regrets. You are a special person that God loves greatly. The person you are is awesome. Don’t fall into the trap of trying to change who you are. You are created with a purpose and for a purpose. Don’t cheapen who you are by disguising yourself. Be who you really are, and you’ll be happier as a result.
- People like you more – Believe it or not people actually will respect you more if you are true to who you are. Be yourself and as you do, people will respect you. People can usually tell when someone is being fake or not themselves. Be who you are and be who God created you to be. Others will respect and like you more when you do.
When you’re feeling bad and don’t like yourself, the best thing you can do is spend time reminding yourself how awesome God things you are. Spend time encouraging yourself that to God you are awesome.
God made you with a purpose. You’re not a mistake or accident. God has a unique plan for your life that only you can fulfill. He’s got things for you to do that no one else can accomplish. He’s got people who need to be touched by your life and what you have to say. Don’t get down on yourself because you don’t have as much money as someone else, or because you don’t look as good as someone else. Remind yourself of what God says about you. That you’ve been created with a unique purpose.
For I know the plans I have for you” — this is the Lord’s declaration — “plans for your welfare, not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. – Jeremiah 29:11 (HSCB)
Then go out and begin making a difference in your world. Begin to look for opportunities to help those around you who are hurting. God wants to use you!