There are sometimes when we as humans forget that not everyone's opinion matters. I know I have. I always think of what everyone will be thinking of how I look or how I portray myself, low self-esteem does that to you. However, as I've gone along, I've realized something: I don't need to worry about anyone's else's opinion. I only need mine and those closest to me.

It doesn't matter what the woman who passes by me in the mall thinks of my outfit. It doesn't matter what people think of my weight when they see me. I am who I am and if I want to change that for the better, let me. If I want to lose weight, I will. I will not lose weight because you think I look fat. I will be losing weight so I can be healthy. If I want to cut my hair, I will. I don't need anyone's approval, except maybe my mom's.

I think everyone needs a little more of this attitude. We can get so caught up in people's view of us that sometimes we contort ourselves to fit society's expectation of us. I say screw that. Society has skewed what is right and what is wrong. There is nothing wrong with being gay, African American, or trans. That was the way you were made. There is nothing wrong with going against your parent's politics or beliefs. There is nothing wrong being a vocal social justice warrior as long as you don't trample over others. There is nothing wrong with believing in something different than others. It is okay to be different.

It can be scary to go against the people around you. You don't feel that familiarity and you feel as if you are alone in your beliefs but you are not. There are people around you and around the world who care about you and don't care what religion you practice. There is nothing wrong with disagreeing with a friend as long as you support them when they need it. There is nothing wrong with loving people.

Don't be afraid to stand up for yourself either, especially to people who love you. Sometimes those who love us do not realize the hurt they cause us. Make sure you stand up for yourself and the way you deserve to be treated. You deserve to be treated like royalty.

Work your butt off for your dreams. Earn every penny. Work hard for your dreams, they will come true.

People nowadays need to do themselves: do what you like, do what you believe in, do what you want to accomplish. Don't let minor barriers like doubts stop you. Believe in yourself because I do. I believe that humans can come together and make the world a better place. I believe that someday everyone will be treated equally under the law. I believe that a person can speak an opposing opinion without being showered with insults. It may seem like a pipe dream but I believe in it.

Believe in yourself because if you don't, who will?