4 Keys to Self Love and Happiness

We’re dead in the middle of summer- it’s the hottest time of the year (seriously, it was 110 today in Dallas) and yet you’ve managed to find excuses on joining in on the pool parties and beach vacations. You create fake stories to keep you away from the situations all together, or to be in such a hurry that you can only pop by aka remain in your street clothes. You’re one of far too many women dealing with self hate, rather than embracing YOUR body. Sound all too familiar?

Please do me a favor. Stop wasting your time on that negative bullshit and focus on finding your version of self love and happiness.

You Already Have a Bikini Body

Do you have a body? Do you have a bikini (or access to one)? Yes and yes? Congrats, you officially have a bikini body, you hot mama you.

It’s time to leave those insecurities at the door, which I get, is way easier said than done. But honestly, the bikini is to make you feel good and isn’t being worn for anyone else to give a damn. Find a bikini top and bottom that make you feel confident, sexy and comfortable. In a day and age where high waisted bikini bottoms (and one pieces) are seen as trendy and cool, take advantage of it! The selection of suits has never been wider. Curvy and plus size women are in the media wearing itsy bitsy bikinis, so why should you have to be any different?

There is Such Thing as Good Peer Pressure

Seriously, there is! I can’t make this shit up. Just take Instagram for example. I post a photo of me, fat rolls and all, in a bikini, encouraging other women to do the same. They do it! That’s peer pressure. You can be that example, too, my friends! You never know who is looking up to you… The younger girl who lives in your community that is dealing with high school bull shit, the woman who just had twins and feels inadequate, the best friend who is never caught dead showing any skin… These women around you, they’re impressionable. These women around you, they need you. They need your confidence, your self love and happiness and your balls to say screw you society, check out my swimmy!!!

In 20 Years, You’ll Care More About a Memory Than a Tummy Roll

It might seem like everyone cares about what you look like in your swimsuit, but really they just want you there. And I promise, 5, 10, 20 years down the road, you’ll remember the day you spent at the pool with your friends grilling out and laughing. What you won’t remember, is the roll that showed on the side of your swimsuit. Don’t let the little voice inside your head keep you from experiencing all that life has to offer.

Take a Chance

We live in a world where online shopping is king. You can order a dozen suits, that may or may not look good on you. Order different sizes, who cares what the number on the tag says. I suggest you order various colors, cuts, brands and styles, and try them on in the comfort of your own home. A few of the sites I recommend are: ASOS, Target, Nordstrom, Aerie, Moana Bikini and Amazon.

Take the leap of faith to try something new- and discover your own self love and happiness.