Self-Esteem in a Self-Obsessed World - by Hannah

So, I have recently become an avid Pinterest user.  It’s great—I highly suggest creating one; but, I have recently been noticing the amount of “Motivation” boards on the site.  (For those of you that don’t know, on Pinterest, you make different “pin boards” for different themes, food, pets, etc.)  Well anyway, these boards usually consist of 80-lb. super models and bronzed to-the-max female athletes with unattainable features and bodies.  Whether or not you use Pinterest, everyone should use healthy and realistic methods for motivation.

 
Point Number One: The majority of these photos have been photo-shopped and retouched beyond recognition.
 
Point Number Two: Girls should not aspire to look like other girls—it will never happen.
“Motivation” boards, or really using pictures of “perfect” girls for motivation in general, is not a healthy or productive habit to possess.  Instead, use healthy or inspiring pictures for motivation and goals.
 
For example:

• Pictures of things on your “Bucket List” 
• Pictures of healthy fruits and veggies 
• Pictures of places you would like to go/see 
• Pictures of your future occupation/goal

Almost anything can be used for positive motivation, other than the pictures of others, of course.  Provide yourself with motivational quotes and healthy alternatives of motivation as opposed to Victoria’s Secret models and pro athletes.  Finally, learn to be happy with who you already are—your best self!

Hannah Roberts is a college freshman at the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg, Mississippi majoring in Biochemistry with a Pre-medical emphasis. Originally from Mount Olive, Mississippi, Hannah was a participant in the Distinguished Young Women program and was selected as the Distinguished Young Woman of Mississippi for 2011. Learn more about Hannah here!