Women's Life Link Be Well, Be Happy, Be YOU!
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Girls can obsess about many different things, especially between the ages of 13 and 17. The hair, the clothes, the voice, the body…on and on they can go! Though most of these types of obsessions are normal and soon pass, some can lead to insecurity and low self-esteem. The fact is, most girls, including your teen daughter, have something they would change about themselves if given the opportunity. And, there is nothing wrong with that; however, it’s important to help our daughters to understand the beauty of being themselves and owning who they are inside and out. Here are some of the most common things that your teen may be wishing she could change about herself.
Her lack of confidence
Girls who lack self-confidence can struggle in social situations, as they may hesitate to start or engage in conversations. This could affect their school experience, their ability to make and keep friends, and even become a source of depression or anxiety. One thing you can do to help your teen deal with a lack of confidence is to teach her to focus on something positive before a social situation. If she feels happier about going, she will likely be more confident when talking to others. Also, keep the lines of communication open. Hopefully, she will share openly about what is bothering her. Let her know that even the most confident people have shy moments and that it’s okay to feel hesitant in social situations. Focus on giving her tangible tools to increase confidence and courage.
The shape of her nose
You might be surprised to learn that your teen is obsessing over the shape of her nose. Actually, a lot of girls hate the way their nose looks in photos. Help her to focus on other areas of her face that she really loves. Also, if she is wearing makeup, you can teach her how to use it properly to enhance her best features and downplay what she dislikes.
Explain to her that we all have flaws that we may want to change, but doing so comes with a price. Let her know that when she is an adult, she can make her own choices about procedures like rhinoplasty to change her appearance. I remember wishing my nose wasn’t so wide as a teen- still do sometimes. Would I ever get surgery, probably not, but it didn’t stop me from doing the research. Make sure she understands exactly what it means to have this kind of surgical changes done and the possible side effects. Here’s one place to get the facts: www.roxyplasticsurgery.com/services/rhinoplasty/.
Her breast size
As a young girl enters her teen years, her body changes at a rapid pace. Explain to her that what she sees and feels now will keep evolving as she matures. Show her photos of various women and point out the differences that each body type represents. It’s common for them to get stuck on the image of their favorite celebrity or model, thinking that they should look the same.
Teach her the real purpose of human breasts and the beauty of them regardless of size and shape. Share with your teen daughter how to enhance her appearance by dressing for her body type. As far as sexuality and attractiveness are concerned, this site explains that breast size really does not matter to the opposite sex.
Her weight
Many girls worry they are too thin or fat to be considered beautiful. This is another case that requires a little perspective. Teach them that various sizes and shapes all have beauty and that, depending on height, your ideal weight will also vary.
The best thing you can do is to make sure she is eating a healthy diet and exercising daily. That way, she can maintain a desired weight, and you will rest, knowing she is healthy and growing as she should.
Her bad skin
Teens naturally wish they could end the blemishes and eruptions that annoyingly show up at the worst times. It’s one of the most noticeable stress triggers in young people and even for some adults. I am a believer that the skin reflects what you put into your body…junk in-junk out. Make sure she is eating a balanced diet and pay attention to possible intolerances and allergies.
Teach your teen daughter proper skin care as early as possible, as this will set the stage for future skin health. You can also have her try different acne products to find one that works for her. If that doesn’t work, you may need to take her to a dermatologist for an evaluation. As discussed on https://pslovecharli.com/2016/03/18/4-surprising-things-that-girls-wish-they-could-change-about-themselves/, unfortunately, there is no magic cure. It may take time before her skin improves, so help her to do what she can and reassure her that she is beautiful no matter what.
