So a few days ago, I bought a bikini, and (here's the miracle), I didn't cry while I tried on any of the dozen or so rejects. Why? Because I found a little confidence this summer, and I'm ready to rock my two-piece. Here's what I discovered.
1 Everyone Drinks the Poison
It's so weird how all of us drink that toxic blend of self-shaming and self-loathing. Look, no one, not even Kate Upton, is PERFECT. There's no such thing! You may not know it, but someone else is wishing she had your body, the one you're always picking apart.
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2 Size Does Matter
Once I started ignoring the size on the tag inside the swimsuit, and just paid attention to how it fit, I found a flattering bikini. Who cares if I normally wear a size 4, and the bikini I chose is an 8? It fits, and that's what matters.
3 Comfort Counts
If you're tugging at the swimsuit in the fitting room, you'll be tugging at it while you're poolside, too, and even if no one notices, you'll feel like a spectacle. Cast that uncomfortable suit aside and try on something else.
4 Focus
Okay, so I don't love everything about the way my body looks, but I do love my tummy, and my smile; what is it about your body that you love? Focus on that. I don't mean to find a suit that accentuates that - I mean, keep YOUR focus on what you love most.
5 Screw the Shamers
There will always, always be some asshat at the beach or by the pool ready to hurl a hurtful insult at you. Ignore them! They're obviously unhappy in their own skin and want to bring you down too. Don't let them! Smile, and give them an extra bootie-shake as you saunter away.
6 Gather the Girls
I hate feeling singled out, and I'm much more comfortable traveling in a pack with my squad. If you're not quite confident yet, head out for the first few trips to the pool with your friends, and banish any "fat talk" among yourselves.
7 Pamper and Prep
When I've spent a little time on myself before I head to the pool, I feel more secure and sexy. Exfoliate. Slip on some scented sunscreen. Wear a little lip gloss. Maybe try a pretty new braid. Do something to pamper yourself a little, and you'll feel more confident, too.
Do you have any other confidence-boosting-in-a-bikini tips or thoughts to share?
