I love shopping. I love pretty much everything about it. I love finding a good deal (and I'm pretty great at that, ask my friends). I love trying clothes on and looking a thousand times in the mirror. I even love when I have to narrow things down and pick what I like best instead of just getting everything I try on (sacrifice, sticking to my budget, getting an awesome deal... oh the rush it gives me).

I wasn't always like this.

As recent as 3 years ago, I dreaded shopping. It was simply a task I couldn't stand. I hated everything about it. I didn't know how to shop for myself and my body type. I was embarrassed and I wasn't comfortable in the skin I was in.

Now, shopping is my comfort. I have been able to develop my own sense of style. It's something that makes me feel unique and different.

Developing my sense of style has immensely boosted my self-confidence. While I used to think it would be "conceited" to love the way you look/look in something, I now see it as a wonderful thing. Fashion has healed my brokenness in so many ways.

Here are 3 things I have done to embrace and love my sense of style and how its helped my self-confidence:

1. I've forced myself to try different things.

There are a lot of things that I thought I "couldn't" wear. My attitude started changing when I stopped thinking and just tried things out for myself. I didn't let what others thought, good or bad, dictate the way I wanted to dress myself. If I had, I'd never have stepped out of my comfort zone and ended up looking amazing because of it. The best thing I have learned through this experience is not relying on others compliments to boost your confidence. Sure, you'll get compliments, sure it'll be nice, but remember that you don't need to seek other people's approval for your happiness.

2. I ask to be photographed.

I am not afraid to ask for people to take my picture anymore. It might take a couple of times to get it "just right", but I'm not ashamed. If I'm wearing a cute outfit, I want to remember that moment. I want to capture the smile on my face, the occasion, and the way that I feel at that moment. I take a lot of time in choosing how I want to dress myself. It's become part of my routine and it makes me happy to put together a perfect outfit to conquer my day.

3. I wear what makes me comfortable, no matter what.

And I photograph myself/ allow myself to be photographed while I am wearing it. Whether it's a t-shirt and leggings or a beautiful evening gown, I make sure that I feel comfortable and confident instead of trying to make myself wear something that is uncomfortable.

My sense of style has boosted my confidence. My confidence has inspired others. People have told me themselves that they've become more outgoing or bold because of me. It's humbling to see how one small change in my life has affected so many people I love and care about.