How I faced my biggest Insecurity
From my conversations with women around me, I know that our insecurities are always top of mind for us. My most recent insecurity is how much my body has changed. I had been trying not to allow it to bother me much. However, in the back of my mind, the huge insecurity lingered. The turning point for me was when I could no longer look at pictures of myself and appreciate my beauty. After a few years of watching the change, I decided to stop feeling bad about my body and start celebrating it.
In this blog post, I will share my very personal story and the key lessons I learned through the process of taking an active approach to facing my insecurities.
How did I face my Insecurity?
After six long months of deliberation and doubt, I decided to take a bold step and do a professional photoshoot for my birthday in October 2018. At the time, it was one of the scariest things I had done. Thinking back, this was one of the best things I have done for myself in a while.
What did I learn through the process?
Going through this terrifying experience of facing my insecurities taught me many valuable lessons.
Lesson #1: It is never as bad as you think
I had never been a fan of photoshoots. The thought of getting my make-up done, posing in front of a camera and then looking at my pictures intimidated me. However, as the day of the photoshoot approached, I started getting excited about the great pictures I would have. Finally, on the day of, I felt very comfortable and happy I was doing it. All in all, it was a pleasant and joyful experience.
Lesson #2: You need people who support you
The two people who helped me through the journey were Melissa, my sister, and Jennifer, the photographer. Melissa was in charge of making sure I did not only choose black outfits. She knew the right questions to ask me without putting too much pressure on me. Melissa knows me well enough to know how to help me from a distance. This was exactly what I needed at this tough time.
Interestingly I met Jennifer at a finance workshop in March, and I told her I wanted to take professional pictures, but I didn't know how to go about it. She gave me her card, and I checked out her work. It took about six months of internal preparations for me to be ready. When I was ready, I reached her to learn about the process, and a few weeks later, I was in her studio doing a great photoshoot. Throughout the process, her professionalism and excitement for her work kept me motivated.
Lesson #3: Guard your ears and heart
Many people don't think about the impact of their words on you. Especially if you feel insecure about things that people can see, hearing them talk about it or even make fun of it can make you very sad. I experienced this first hand. It took me a while to start ignoring the negative comments that came my way. I feel the strong need to appeal to everyone - be kind and sensitive.
Lesson #4: The results will be beautiful and worth it
I wish I spent time thinking more about the great results that will come from me facing my insecurities. This would have encouraged me to take the bold step earlier. After the photoshoot, I started volunteering myself for other sessions. I was now more comfortable with the process and looking at my pictures. I wonder how much we can achieve if we think more about the results and less about the painful process.
Lesson #5: Facing your insecurities is a continuous process
Now that I have experience in facing one of my biggest insecurities, I know one thing for sure; you have to continue facing your insecurities. They don't magically disappear after you do something bold. The good news is that you have seen the great benefits of taking action and you know what you can do. To continue my journey, I am committed to celebrating my body every year with a personal photoshoot.
Final Thoughts
Facing your insecurities will make you feel empowered and free.
The best way to face your insecurities is to take action.
You are stronger than your insecurities - don't let them hold you back.
Call to Action
What is your biggest insecurity? Write it down.
What steps can you take to face your insecurity? Plan for action and do it.
Great Resources
The result of facing my Insecurity
Sharing the great pictures I took. Thanks to my great photographer Jennifer Graham
