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| 6 things to teach our daughters |
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Today's digital age brings with it an ever-increasing focus on looks and beauty. From the picture-perfect snapchat selfie, to the filtered snapshot of Facebook life, it feels like body obsession and constant comparison to others is becoming an increasing concern for young girls today.
As parents, all we want for our daughters is to grow up with a positive body image, with self-belief and an expectation of equality and respect. Here are 6 things to teach our young daughters, to ensure this message is instilled at an early age.
Every body is beautiful
Society seems determined to tell us that there is a 'perfect body'; however 99 per cent of the population doesn't have it. Though media images aren't real, most of social media is full of this filtered version of reality. Babies, toddlers, teens and adults come in all shapes and sizes, all with different traits and characteristics… how boring the world would be if we were all the same! So, no matter what shape and size you are, a beautiful heart will always shine more than a perfect face; intelligence lasts longer than beauty.
Be healthy for you, not for your dress size
Everyone should exercise, eat well and live a healthy lifestyle. But do it for you, not because you want to be thin. Eat food because it is fuel for your day and because it is delicious; pick your clothes because you love them, not because you think they make you attractive. Your self-worth is based on your own opinion, not on the opinion of others.
You can do anything, but not everything
You are capable of doing anything you put your mind to, but can't do everything. Never doubt your own ability, even when people try to knock you down, concentrate on your journey and believe in yourself – you are worth achieving good things. Choose things because you love them, not because society expects it. Don't expect anything to be given to you; you must work hard for what you want. Don't be afraid to dream, and don't be afraid to fail.
Be independent and educated
Learn to be financially independent and be confident in being alone. Learn how to fix things around the house; have your own tool kit, and know how the car works. Learn how to cook, and how to be your own person. Most importantly, learn to say 'no'. Always have something just for you – whether it's music, sport, craft, or dancing – and always make time for it. Educate yourself – good grades and a qualification really do make a difference.
Be yourself
You are not better than anyone, and no one is better than you. You are unique and amazing, so always trust your instincts, and do what you believe is right, not what you think other people will want. When people talk to you, listen to them, and value other's opinions even if they are different from yours, and never judge anyone unless you have walked a mile in their shoes.
Learn to get along with girls, but know that it is always quality of friends over quantity. A true friend will be there for a lifetime, whatever changes life throws at you - you'll only have a few of them.
People remember how you make them feel, never forget that. And if it feels wrong talking about it, then you probably shouldn't do it!
Don't base decisions on boys
You are equal to men in every single way, so learn to be friends with boys – and don't base your self-worth on whether you are attractive to them. Make all decisions based on what is right for you; if a boy isn't happy with your decision, he might not be right for you. If he makes you cry anything but happy tears, he is not worth it. Don't settle for second best in relationships – wait for the one that takes your breath away.
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