Dear you,

Right now, you're feeling insecure, like you always have. You continuously tell yourself that you're not good enough, not pretty enough, not smart enough. You're always consumed by what others think of you. You're always looking for approval or acceptance from others. Please stop comparing yourself to others. You are a child of God, and He made you enough. You are worth so much more than you could ever imagine.

You don't need approval from everyone else, and do you want to know why? You are your own person. You don't owe anybody anything. You're beautiful inside and out, and you know that — you just need a reminder every now and then. Whenever you feel like you aren't enough, continue to tell yourself that you are enough. Rather than looking for approval in others, look for it in yourself. You're not always going to be able to please everyone else, so start with yourself.

I know this is all easier said than done. I know you can't fix yourself overnight. I'm aware this will all take time, but please stop worrying about everyone else's standards. I'm sure while you're busy comparing yourself to others, people are also comparing themselves to you.

It's okay to be insecure, it happens to everyone. Use this insecurity as the fuel to your fire. Use this to be better. Use this to grow more. It's okay to be yourself. People will respect you for being who you are. Even though in the past you've felt like you had to be someone else, people will love you for who you are. Be yourself. Be true to yourself. Be honest with yourself.

Nothing defines you. No number on an exam will define you. No number on a scale defines you. No certain hairstyle or clothing choice defines you. Don't let other people's opinions of you tear you down. Instead, wonder what it is that makes you the way you are, and embrace that.

I'm insecure, and I hate it, so my goal is to make sure that someday you can feel comfortable with who you are. I hope someday you're able to realize that your worth is undefinable. I hope someday you're able to realize that there are people out there who love you for who you are. I hope you realize that you don't need to change for anyone. You're perfect the way you are and I pray that someday you're able to realize that.

Sincerely,

a kid who hopes she's not as insecure someday