So, it's summer time and we all know that when there is summer, there is swimming, and where there is swimming, there are swimsuits. Now, many of us, myself included, are self-conscious about our bodies and we don't necessarily feel comfortable in our swimsuits. Starting at a young age, girls have the idea that we have to be a size zero to look good in the summer engraved into our heads. The second I hear "beach body," the first thing that comes to mind is a flat stomach with a thigh gap, but in reality, those are not realistic standards for everyone. I'm going to discuss some different ways that helped me feel better about my body even though I don't have that flat stomach you see on models.

Step 1: NEVER WEAR ANYTHING WITH HORIZONTAL STRIPES!

Horizontal stripes are a big "no-no." Horizontal stripes will take you from a size 12 to a size 12,000 unless you are a size -500. Instead of stripes, go with something like polka dots or flowers. If you read this and take any advice, let it be to avoid stripes.

Step 2: Go retro with a high-waist bikini.

I personally own several high-waist bikinis and I love them. They are great if you are not quite ready for a full-on, belly-button-wide-open swimsuit. I love them because they makes me look like I'm half my size. These suits are very slimming, and you can even get some that will squeeze in that fat down in the tummy area. I put that thing on and I felt like I went from a slug to full-on Beyonce.

Step 3: Get a tight swimsuit.

Some of us need a little help feeling comfortable in a swim suit, and a very easy way to feel safe in your body is to get a swim suit that sucks you in a little bit. There are tons of one piece swim suits that are made to help you feel secure in your body by sucking you in a little, making that stomach a little bit flatter. Everybody needs a little help sometimes. You think models have never used liposuction?

Step 3: Embrace that curvy body and slay!

I, personally, had a very difficult time accepting the fact that I am no Victoria's Secret Angel, but once I became comfortable in my own skin, summertime became ten times better. Not caring about what people think about you will make life way better. God placed us on this earth and He will love us whether we are a size 0 or a size 22. The second you realize you are beautiful in every single way, you will be fine. I believe that a curvy body is better than a bag of bones.

Every body is beautiful, so why not show yours off? Get rid of that swim suit cover-up and slay with that swimsuit. Tell that stereotypical beach body "forget you" and slay! Have fun this summer and feel free to try that swim suit that's hiding in the back of your closet.