Instagram likes, love reacts and selfies - it’s easy to feel inadequate and compare ourselves to others. It’s harder to ignore the constant posts and not compare ourselves to unrealistic standards - where airbrushing, photoshop and face-tune are the norm. Everyone has days where they don’t like what they see in the mirror. Even though it might not seem like it, everyone struggles with insecurities and it’s almost an expected part of being alive.

Self-improvement begins when we realise that what we portray on the outside is a direct reflection of how we’re feeling on the inside. This means, if we want to improve our appearance and be more attractive, we need to start appreciating our own flaws and shortcomings. Sure, people are superficial and society’s beauty standards play a major role in whether or not people think we are attractive, but studies show being confident in who you really are does make you more attractive.

Wishing you were more attractive is a natural response; today, everyone is hyper-focused on their appearance and how they are perceived by others. Social media, only makes this worse – we constantly see images of ‘perfect’ people. When it feels too much, remember people that we think are attractive also are dealing with their own insecurities – they have found all the flaws with their own appearance, just like you have.

If you want to change your appearance, make sure you have nurtured and cared for how you look on the inside first. Supporting and strengthening our mental health is so crucial to self-improvement, so remember to be kind to yourself. As hard it is, try not let your worries impact the way you view yourself. You are beautiful for your faults and flaws, for your hobbies and quirks, not just appearance.

Make sure to surround yourself with people who affirm you and your worth, rather than tear you down.