I spent most of my adolescence feeling super self-conscious. I never thought my hair was pretty enough, my smile was straight enough or my body was thin enough. When I was 16, I finally shaped up and got active. I was what some might consider "popular." I was a cheerleader, had a lot of friends, but I was still terrified of what people thought about me. I still occasionally struggle with my self-esteem, but I have learned some mantras that have helped me become the confident queen I am today.

Here are some tips to help you find your inner boldness!

1. DRESS UP AND TAKE SELFIES

Whenever I’m just not feeling it, I like to put together an outfit that I absolutely love — one that makes me feel beautiful and sexy. The next step is to start snapping some selfies. Taking cute photos of yourself is an instant way for you to boost your confidence. 

2. CHANGE UP YOUR LOOK

Get your hair or nails done every once in a while, ladies. I swear this is the ultimate confidence booster. Every time I get a blowout or dye my hair a bold color, it lifts up my confidence instantly.

3. WRITE IT OUT

List your best qualities on post-it notes. Post them up somewhere you can see them, preferably on your bathroom, bedroom or bedroom mirror. Read them if you’re having a low moment because it’s important to remember all of the good things about yourself. This one couldn’t be truer.

4. TAKE ACTION

Do something charitable. It is a general rule of thumb that if you do something good for someone else, it will bring you joy. Try to volunteer at a local shelter or organization. Try holding open a door for someone else, or paying for the person in line behind you at the drive-thru. When you spend it forward, it will boost your self-esteem and happiness.

5. TREAT YO’ SELF

This expression is probably one of my favorites! It doesn’t have to be an everyday affair, but periodically reward your awesomeness by treating yourself to something nice. Maybe a spa day, a new pair of shoes, a trip to Sephora to buy some new Fenty Beauty or buy yourself some new magazines or books, etc. Make sure to really enjoy this time to spoil yourself.

6. SURROUND YOURSELF WITH THE RIGHT PEOPLE

Surround yourself with only optimistic people. These people are the absolute best to be around, and you need them in your life. You are what you attract, and you embody what you are about. With that being said, being around positive people is like having constant good vibes in your life, and hopefully, their inspiring attitudes will rub off on you in a positive way.

7. DO WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY

As always, it's important to find what sets your soul on fire. Make sure that you set some goals for yourself and actually get out there and achieve them, no matter what they are. There is nothing better than doing what you truly love. So figure out what that is and don’t stop until you make those dreams a reality.

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