Life is freaking short- so short, for that matter, it’s crucial we stop wasting our time on nonsense. The “nonsense” I speak of is simple--our insecurities. We have no time: no time for self-doubt, no time for lack of confidence, no time to feel unsure of our greatness and apprehensive about our strength.

Stop comparing yourself to others.

I promise you that every “Instagram famous” profile you stalk is riddled with Photoshop. Everything you see on social media is filtered; so stop comparing yourself to a false reality. By comparing yourself to others and yearning for their seemingly perfect life is only making you feel less about yourself.

Now that that’s out of the way: stop comparing yourself to people, especially your boyfriends' ex-girlfriend. If he wanted to be with her, he would be. He obviously made the smartest decision of his life, to be with you, so when you compare yourself to someone in his past, you’re putting yourself at a disadvantage.

While you indulge yourself in these comparisons, self-hating thoughts, you’re engaging in self-destructive behaviors. So, my best advice on this: know your worth and stop comparing yourself to counterfeits.

Get rid of the critic in your head.

Vocalizing your self-critical thoughts and tarnishing them is easier said than done, but know that I have faith in you! The process isn’t easy, but with hard work comes change. The negative attitudes that were mere 'phases' as children soon develop into a part of our being.

“You’re stupid.”

“You’re fat.”

“You’re a loser.”

By giving these doubtful thoughts the ability to belittle you, you’re simultaneously allowing yourself to believe they’re true. It’s time to smash that indiscretion. As we may pull back from relationships or act out toward our close allies, we need to imagine what life’s reality would be like without these voices. That’s right, life’s reality would be freaking awesome. So get that little voice out of your brain and dive head-first into a world of possibilities.

Unleash the real you.

I unleash my most true and genuine self by doing exactly what I want to do- I don’t let anything stop me, not even another person with a potent attitude and belittling judgments. A person and their attitude and judgments can’t stop me. The prime way to let loose is to concentrate on you and only you.

Taking part in actions that encourage you to be better is how you will defeat the insecurities that live inside of you. This includes exercising and hanging out with people that help you be the best version of yourself. Retail therapy never hurts too.

Don’t withhold your affections, don’t avoid being you, and don’t let anyone tear you down. Stand up to your insecurities. Your self-doubt and lack of confidence won’t fade overnight but remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day; change takes time. With the help of perseverance and dedication, your insecurities will start to dwindle.