Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about identity — who I am, who I’m becoming, and whether the way I see myself is even accurate. It’s strange how I can feel so sure of the fact that I’m a kind person — someone who’s generous, observant, thoughtful — and still question if I fully know myself at all.
I’ve always been someone who loves to grow. I’m constantly looking for ways to elevate my life, my mindset, my routines, my outlook. I change a lot, and even though I know it’s just part of being a teenage girl, it can be… overstimulating. Exhausting, even.
There’s always something new to try.
A tea that’ll help you get thinner.
A workout that’s suddenly “wrong” for your body type.
A food that was healthy last month and now is villainized.
A new aesthetic to fit into.
A list of things you’re “supposed” to be doing if you really care about yourself.
It never ends.
Social media especially makes it feel like I’m constantly playing catch-up with versions of myself I never even asked for. It’s a space that once inspired me, but now it often feels heavy. Everyone has something to say about everything. There’s so much pressure to live life right that it can make you feel like you’re doing everything wrong.
And the truth is — I love taking cute pictures. I love beauty, softness, sharing small moments that feel good to me. I love watching makeup tutorials and funny videos. I just wish it didn’t come with so much noise and judgment. It’s hard to stay connected to yourself when the world keeps yelling about who you should be.
I’m realizing that I don’t want to keep chasing who I “should” be. I want to be present with the version of me that exists right here, right now — even if she’s still figuring things out.
Journaling Prompt:
What would it feel like to be exactly who you are today, without needing to change anything?
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