Today’s #BeKind21 message is brought to you by our partners at Girls Inc.

Today you get to meet Nina, a teen who felt alone and misunderstood, but eventually discovered that being kind to yourself means self-acceptance and embracing who you are.

From a young age, I struggled with body image and self-esteem issues. I hated the way I looked, and would examine every angle of my body in the mirror, at times inflicting pain on myself. It was difficult for me to express my feelings at home or with my friends at school.

It was my school that eventually referred me to Girls Inc. to get guidance and support. At first, I was extremely apprehensive about attending Girls Inc. But I soon realized there was nothing to fear. The staff at Girls Inc. were encouraging and understanding. I also began to bond with other girls over our shared experiences. I wasn’t judged but instead accepted. For probably the first time in my life, I felt free to talk about my insecurities without them being dismissed as insignificant.

Your kindness challenge today: Love yourself.

Loving yourself frees you and allows you to be in your own truth. As an act of kindness for today, write yourself a note about one thing you love about yourself. Keep it nearby all day. Pull it out every now and then. Read it and know that kindness starts with cherishing and appreciating who you are!

Learn more about the Girls Inc. sisterhood of support and how the girl in your life can join today!

In Kindness,

Nina from Girls Inc.

P.S. Invite a friend to join the challenge: bornthisway.foundation/bekind21.