Being a Girl

Disclaimer: Don't judge me for being dorky and talking about emotions and girl issues.

This weekend I have felt like a 100% stereotypical girl.
An emotional, comparing, self-image issue having girl.
And I absolutely despise admitting it.
And we even get a special week every month to take a self esteem hit.
Ugh.

Normally, I would say I'm pretty self confident.
I feel comfortable in my own skin.
I am happy, healthy, and love life.
I am at peace with  my imperfections (which are many) and feel like I can always improve on something.

But every now and then (And more often than I would like to admit), this little monster named "self esteem issues" creeps in.
And I feel like I'm not good enough, or pretty enough, or smart enough, or awesome enough... or whatever.
And I feel like everyone else is.
Why, why!
Like I said. UGH!

After a good long talk with my sister and some of the right words from my hubby (thank goodness for them), I felt better. But here are the conclusions I have come to:
1. As much as I don't want people to know that I have bad self esteem days, I do. Goal: Remember that I am God's daughter and He loves me.
2. The people I admire most are the ones who are confident, happy, and have their priorities straight. Goal: Be that girl.
3. Comparing myself to other people will not help anything. Just because I admire someone does not mean that I have to be as awesome as them right this second. Goal: As cliche as it sounds, remember that I have special talents, too. I just need to learn the right way to use them. Also, nobody cares as much about my weaknesses as I do.
4. Being pretty isn't all that matters. When all your friends are gorgeous, it's easy to get into the comparison thing again. Bad idea. Goal: Be healthy and confident. Have a beautiful soul. It will radiate on the outside.
5. Goal: BE special. Help people. Serve people. Remember the things that are important and do them. Be the person who does good. Be a friend. Be a listener. Those are the things that matter most.

And Uchtdorf knows it, too:

"You are not forgotten.

Sisters, wherever you are, whatever your circumstances may be, you are not forgotten. No matter how dark your days may seem, no matter how insignificant you may feel, no matter how overshadowed you think you may be, your Heavenly Father has not forgotten you. In fact, He loves you with an infinite love.

He who created and knows the stars knows you and your name—you are the daughters of His kingdom. 

God loves you because you are His child. He loves you even though at times you may feel lonely or make mistakes.

The love of God and the power of the restored gospel are redemptive and saving. If you will only allow His divine love into your life, it can dress any wound, heal any hurt, and soften any sorrow.

You are closer to heaven than you suppose. You are destined for more than you can possibly imagine."

  

And thank goodness for husbands that can make you feel better about yourself on those off days. 

XOXO