Hello and welcome! Take a seat – enjoy.

Since I posted the first part numerous questions about body image and self-love found their way to me. One of those questions was why I share my story – what makes me interesting enough to tell my evolution. In no way do I believe that my life is more interesting or exciting than others. Nevertheless, I write my thoughts about my journey down, not just to make it public or “whatever” – no. I’m writing this chapter so I can leave “self-doubting Anita” behind and move on. As cliche as it sounds, I write so people, especially girls, realise their not alone and that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Apart from that, I share my thoughts so you can get an insight look of someone else’s mind and open your mind inch by inch. Everything in life is a learning process from the moment you take your first breath – you’re learning. I’m not here to teach or preach; instead, my goal is to start a conversation about topics we feel uncomfortable about or usually ignore. Make you connect points you normally wouldn’t even consider. Now let’s move on to the actual item.

There is one Pinterest quote in particular that really got me thinking – “ignore what other people say”. Don’t get me wrong if it’s unnecessary hate comments please ignore them and for your own sake cut those commentators out of your life immediately. On the other hand, don’t just brush it off if someone gives you a compliment about your personality or look. Unfortunately, I have a couple of friends that can’t handle compliments although they deserve every little praise. Once you stop trying to convince the other person that you don’t deserve the admiration but instead thank them your subconscious will at point start believing it. Which, as a result, makes you feel beautiful inside and out. Some people use mantras and tell themselves, for instance, every morning “I’m beautiful – I’m loved”. Might sound silly to some and like the best idea ever to others. Self-love is all about finding what works for you. Although during this process, you should focus on yourself and be aware of your environment. If you’re as fortunate as I’m, you’ll have loving and encouraging friends surrounding you. Is this the case, concentrate on how they’re treating you with affection and respect. You’ll recognise that there is no reason not to love yourself – if other people can love you what prevents you from doing the same?

To be completely honest, I had to move to London to be 100% myself. I was “selfish” – I left everyone I care and love so profoundly behind in Austria to find the love of my life – myself. Just after a couple of weeks, I was unapologetically me. I didn’t notice that me being me had an impact on others till a dear friend of mine mentioned it. Because I was myself, I made her feel like she could open up to me, be vulnerable and simply herself. Let me tell you, making someone else feel like they can be themselves around you no matter what feels even better than loving yourself. When she told me I was so proud of myself because I could make someone feel the same way as London makes me feel. Even just thinking back to this moment warms my heart. What I actually wanted to say with this paragraph though is – sometimes you have to be “selfish” just to stay sane and true to yourself. If you need a break, take a break. If you want to be alone for a while – go for it.

see you next time

anita