How to deal with insecurities as a teen?
Confidence is silent, insecurities are loud. -Anonymous
Everyone has insecurities, but they are particularly loud among teenagers. I would know. I’m a teenager too. I have seen insecurities get the best of my friends and sometimes even myself.
So, I am doing what I can to help. If you’re a teen struggling to deal with their insecurities (or a parent of one), Welcome! Or if you belong to another age group but face insecurities, you’re welcome too.
Identifying your insecurity is the first step to overcoming it. Insecurities can be about anything. Generally, If you are a teenager, it is likely about your looks or accomplishments.
Do you often stress about what others think of you? Whether you matter to them?
Do you feel like you’re not good enough? Â
Wondering once in a while is alright. But if you worry too much about it, then you’re probably insecure.
It is normal to be insecure.
Remember, everyone feels insecure. Just because you think you are ugly or unworthy doesn’t mean you are. That is just your insecurity speaking. You are awesome. Don’t listen to anyone who tells you otherwise. Be confident. But don’t forget to be humble too..
Don’t spend too much time worrying about what others think. It’s pointless. Trust me— no one cares about the pimple on your forehead or that embarrassing joke you said five years ago. Nobody’s going to treat you rudely because of your appearance or marks. If they do, don’t care about them. (However, If they go overboard to the point of bullying, stand up to them. Inform your parents or teachers.)
True friends won’t make you feel insecure. They won’t tease you about your looks or the cheesy shows you like to watch. They won’t ridicule your interests. If you’re scared to reveal your true self to your friends, then maybe it is time to get some new friends.
Talk to those who matter.
Most importantly, Tell others how you feel. Surround yourself with your best friends and your family. And when they tell you not to worry or that you are great just the way you are: believe them. Because they mean it.Â
But, if you are shy to tell them about your insecurities, spend time with them. Even that helps. Talk to that goofy friend who raves on about the silliest of things, to that silent friend who listens to you keenly, to that mom-friend who showers concern. Talk to anyone you know and trust. Distract yourself.Â
If you’re an introvert, or if you’d rather spend your time watching your favorite TV show, reading your favorite novel, dancing, or singing. Do that. Entertain yourself. You can even read my blog!
Shameless self-promo aside, my point is to do what makes you happy.
Takeaway
: In short, Be proud of yourself. Embrace your interests. Increase your self-esteem.
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As for the friends or family trying to help their relative overcome insecurity, stay with them as they figure themselves out and tell them not to worry. Don’t make them feel worse about themselves. Give them a few words of assurance. Make them feel loved.
(You could even show them this blog!)
Bye!
                            -Mehak Fathima
