To all the girls in today's society,

Being a girl in 2016 is tough! There are so many makeup and body trends going around today that it can get overwhelming. There are also people who say that you need to look or act a certain way so you can be popular or have a relationship or whatever they think is important. Don't listen to them! Do whatever you want to do and make yourself happy! Don't do something just because other people are doing it. Don't hide because you're afraid of what people will think. Be a leader, not a follower.

As a girl who has been "big" her whole life, I understand how hard it can be to not worry about other people and their opinions. I also understand how hard it can be to not change myself for others. But throughout my life, I've come to accept the fact that I am who I am and I'm ok with that. I'm happy with the way that I am and I'm happy with my life. Yes, I may not be the prettiest or the skinniest girl, but I’m still me. I’m living my life the way I want to and the way that I think is best for me.

Now I'm not going to say that I don't worry about people, I just let them control my life. There are certain ways I do this and now I'm going to share them with you.

1. Surround yourself with people who love you!

Whether it be family or friends, be surrounded by people who are constantly smiling and laughing with you. They will always be your biggest supporters and cheer you up when you're feeling low. They will keep reminding you how awesome and amazing you are! And if anyone ever says something different... well, they better watch out!

2. Remind yourself that you are beautiful!

So what if the girl next to you is wearing a crop top and a skirt and you're wearing a T-shirt with a cat on it and jeans? Who cares!? You're only as beautiful as you feel/want to be. If that T-shirt makes you feel awesome, then great! You wear what you want to wear and you dress for yourself. Don't try to fit in. Be your own person.

3. Just be you!

Be as goofy as you want to be! Come out of your shell and just have fun with your life! When I came out of my shell my senior year of high school, I made a ton of new friends and ended up having the best year of my high school life. I wasn't afraid to dance in public anymore (in fact, I actually love doing it now!) It was one of the best decisions that I have made and it helped make me the girl that I am today. So go laugh your head off with one of your friends outside! Have a random dance party and just have fun! Just be yourself!

So as I've said before, go make yourself happy. Don't do it for someone else. Go have fun with your life and see where it takes you! You might be surprised by the outcome. And if they're some road blocks in the way, just go around them. Don't listen to what others have to say. It's not their life, it's yours.