Teen Breathe Magazine – Issue 31

In this issue: In the picture – Nice to meet you – It’s OK to say no – Lost for words – Exit stage left- Find your way forward – Big-day butterflies? – Naturally inspired – Incognito mode

Feeling self-assured and comfortable about who you are is an important part of wellbeing. It’s not something that comes easily to everyone, but there are simple ways to build on it that will benefit you in many areas of life.
You might, for example, tend to go along with what your friends say, even if you disagree, because you don’t want to cause a stir. After all, who doesn’t want to fit in?

This is completely natural, and there are times when hiding your feelings is easier all round. But stifling your true self too often can make you feel stressed, because you won’t feel accepted for who you really are.

Differences in opinions, tastes and habits are what make life so interesting, so don’t be afraid to express your thoughts and feelings. As you do this, you’ll notice your confidence grow and spread to other areas of your life.

For example, perhaps you’re invited to go somewhere but you’re just not up for it. Rather than accepting and feeling annoyed, you’ll feel confident enough to know that, as long as you’re polite and honest, it’s OK to decline.
What’s more, confidence in yourself can make it easier to step out of your comfort zone and take on all kinds of challenges. It can help you adapt more easily to change and realise that you’re more capable than you’d imagined. Perhaps, most importantly, it can help you flourish.

Cover Illustration: La Jeanette