Be You.

What happens if you show your real self?

What happens if you don’t listen to others’ misguided opinions about you?

What happens if you don’t hold yourself back?

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We spend a lot of time and effort trying to put a filter on our lives — sure on social media, but more importantly & detrimentally, face-to-face. Why is that? Is that because we are terrified of being vulnerable? We can’t possibly put our true selves out there, because someone might not like us, or may say something hurtful about us. It’s ‘uncool’ to be honest and true to your beliefs, because we’re taught by our peers to go with the flow and not rock the boat…. ‘because being different means you’re doing something wrong’ 🙄😤

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From a young age, I knew I was going to be different. I was an athlete and tomboy. I cared more about my family and playing softball than shopping and parties — not to mention I was a giant who towered over everyone at school. I stood out like a sore thumb. But for some reason, I struggled with my differences — while everyone was dating and wearing trendy outfits, I was standing by the friends I was too tall to date and wearing high-waters. Talk about terrifying. If I could talk to my high school self, I’d tell her to keep her head up… and stand taller. I’d share that, at nearly 30, I love my height and my incredible husband does too. I’d tell her that all of her insecurities aren’t worth the effort, and to continue to focus on making herself and those around her better. I’d tell her to surround herself with people who make her feel like herself.

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What happens if you show your true self? You thrive and you encourage others to do the same.

What happens if you don’t listen to others’ misguided opinions about you? You continue to move forward.

What happens if you don’t hold yourself back? You will find more love and respect for yourself than ever.

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Be you.