As someone who struggles with depression and self image issues, it can be hard to focus on what is beautiful about myself. I have spent so much time devoted to telling myself I was ugly, and hideous and not of worth, it’s almost a natural instinct to say, “nothing is beautiful.” But I know that is not true.

For years and years I would try on at least 3 outfits every day before school. I would say, “ugh! I look so fat!” or “people will think i am so ugly in this!” and finally, I would settle on something because if I didn’t I would be late for school. I remember one day as I was gazing in the mirror, deciding what level of ugly I was that day, I noticed how beautiful my hair was. I noticed that it was thick, and shiny and had beautiful waves. I noticed that it framed my face perfectly. And while I might not be happy with my overall appearance, I was genuinely happy with my hair. That day I made progress.

Every day since then I have looked in the mirror, and maybe I haven’t loved everything I have seen, but at least I have loved my hair. It has been an accessory I can wear every day that helps me feel confident, and beautiful and puts a pep in my step! And as silly as this may sound, every day I am grateful for that day that I realized that I had pretty hair…because that day I realized, there was something about me that was beautiful. Something that made me feel of worth.

And ever since then I have known, it’s not just my hair that is of worth. It’s me.