by Jessica Quinton

Created on: May 06, 2008   Last Updated: May 20, 2008

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, as they say. But sometimes when a person is looking at themselves, all they see is the flaws. A little reality check...everyone, and I do mean everyone, has flaws. Sometimes we may not think so when we see the airbrushed models covered in make-up in the magazines, but it's true. Summer can be especially frustrating when the short shorts and bathing suits show up. It doesn't have to be a stressful summer full of brooding though. Hopefully the following tips will help others as it's helped me.

First, when you go shopping, don't buy clothes that fit someone else. Don't worry about if the size isn't exactly what you wore a few years ago. Buy what fits and looks good on you. All bodies are different. Accentuate the assets that you have. If you have long legs, show them off. If you're blessed in the bust, show a little cleavage. A nice tan and skin? Wear tank tops and shorts so everyone can see. Be especially careful when shopping for those dreaded bathing suits. Shop early in the season before all the styles and sizes are gone. A person with a small physique can go for those bikinis, by all means. But if you're a person with a bit of a tummy, opt for a one piece or a tankini to cover it up. Many suits these days even have tummy control built in. If you're self-conscious about your rear and thigh, go for the suits with the little skirts.

Secondly, have a positive attitude. If you think you're beautiful, sexy, and act confident, other people will notice and think so as well. It's not easy, but try to look at yourself daily and instead of picking out all the negative aspects, force yourself to find the things you like. Eyes, hair, skin, fingernails...anything that will make you feel good. Generally people tend to see themselves much, much worse than other people do. Determine beauty for yourself, don't let a magazine or the media do it for you. People die trying to obtain these images without realizing that the famous people and models have issues as well.

Last, but not least, live life and just have fun. It's not about how skinny a person is, how large their breasts are, how tan, or how perfect their hair may be. What really matters is the person inside and sometimes we forget this. I've never just had a friend because of any of these factors. Personality is the key. Be kind, fun, positive, and honest and you'll make relationships that are worth having and last for a lifetime.

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