Self-deprecation

Society teaches us to hate ourselves at a young age.

It teaches us to constantly compare ourselves to the unrealistic ideal, and to strive for that ideal regardless of the consequences. If you don't fit the mainstream media's definition of perfect, you are nothing.

You are useless.

Then, as we begin to get older, there are those who tell us to be more comfortable in our own skin. They tell us to be confident, and to ignore society's expectations.

The real kicker is, if you're confident, you're conceited. We are taught very early on to never, ever be conceited or self-centered. However, if you're insecure, you're encouraged to develop self-esteem.

So, what more does society want from us?

We can either be conceited or insecure.

Personally, I choose feeling conceited over feeling like shit any day of the week. What does it matter if you look in the mirror and think, "DAMN, I'm gorgeous?"

What is so wrong about appreciating yourself? If society doesn't appreciate you, fuck society.

You're allowed to love yourself. Let go of the lies you've been taught and recognize that yes, you do have flaws, and no, you will never be perfect, but that doesn't mean you can't feel amazing about yourself.

Recognize that no matter what anyone else says, YOU have the power to change your opinion of yourself.

Recognize that you are allowed to be conceited, full of yourself, etc.

No one is perfect, but everyone is allowed to feel pretty damn close. Accept your limitations, but know that they don't make or break you as a person.

You will never be the perfect anything, and what's so bad about that? You are your own person. Once you become the stereotypical ideal, you become replaceable.

Our imperfections are what make us different. Be proud of your flaws and your assets alike.

Be the best that you can be, and love every second of it. So what if someone thinks you're conceited? So what if someone says you're full of yourself?

Personally, when someone accuses me of such things, my response is unfalteringly, "Yes, I am full of myself. I'd rather look in the mirror and love what I see than pointlessly hate what I can't change."

Be conceited, be full of yourself, be your own number one fan, and enjoy it. Trust me, it's an exhilarating feeling.