In today’s society, we are surrounded by actors, singers, models, etc. Beautiful people that influence how we see beauty. Despite each person being very different, we set a nearly impossible standard to achieve. In a world where looks and physical appearance are so prominent, it is important to remember what is actually important. Here are ten traits we should encourage and praise in lieu of being pretty. Remember, being pretty on the inside matters way more than being pretty on the outside.
1. Being smart- Intelligence is one factor that anyone can appreciate. You don’t have to be a genius, just be willing to acquire information from others, and in turn hold conversations and help others learn, too. This will be appreciated more than you know.
2. Being kind- Personally, as long as you are kind, it doesn’t matter who you are. Nothing is more important than being nice to other people, despite how your day is going, despite how this person treats you, despite everything. You never know what someone is going through, so be kind.
3. Being brave- Sometimes, you will have to step out of your comfort-zone. Sometimes you’ll have to do things you don’t want to do. And maybe, just maybe, you will end up loving it. I think the risk should always be worth a try.
4. Being humble- Being proud of yourself and being humble don’t always go hand in hand. One way to earn respect of your peers is to be humble. Yes, be happy with all your accomplishments, but remember that you can always do more, and to continue working to the top.
5. Being unique- No one wants to be a carbon-copy of someone else. By being unique, you are embracing everything about yourself. The good, the bad, the weird. This makes you different, and it helps you stand out. They can be a good thing, I promise.
6. Being empathetic- This is important because you’ll be able to comfort people, and be there for them. In turn, they should be there for you. Other people see how you treat them, remember that.
7. Being passionate- Find what you love, and chase it. Never, ever give it up because someone doesn’t believe in you. If you need someone to believe in you, then believe in yourself. Work hard, continue to pursue it, and all your hard-work will pay off.
8. Being open minded- In order to gain the respect of others, this could be a key factor. Just because you don’t understand something doesn’t mean it is wrong. Be open-minded to what they are saying allows yourself to gain knowledge, and grow as a person. Plus, you might even find yourself agreeing with them.
9. Being adventurous- This kind of goes hand-in-hand with #3, but I think it is important, too. Do things that scare you. Go on adventures, and do things you never thought you’d do. You won’t regret it.
10. Being goal-orientated- Having a goal means you have something to work towards. This goes along with being hard-working, successful, etc. If you continue to work towards said goals, you will succeed.
Overall, there are many things that are more important than being pretty. That is not to say it doesn’t matter, because self-confidence does matter, and feeling beautiful is a part of that. Just remember that just because you don’t look like someone else that the world deems “pretty,” doesn’t mean you aren’t. Just continue to be the best person you can be, and remember what is more important.