Some days you can feel so good about yourself, and other days you don't want to leave the house or show your face to anyone! It is tough to always try and fit in with what everyone says is cool and beautiful.

The key to healthy self-esteem and being happy with yourself is to not fall into the trap of believing these five myths!

Myth 1: Everyone is so perfect.
Truth: What you see at parties, school or work, and especially on social media, is not always what it seems. When it comes to feeling good about yourself, the most important thing to remember is that we all get zits, we all have flaws, we all feel insecure sometimes. What really matters, is that you love yourself, flaws and all! Try boosting that confidence by repeating one thing you love about yourself every morning.

Myth 2: Clothes and make-up will make me more beautiful.
Truth: It's super fun to experiment with different looks. But these feelings are temporary. You are also beautiful when you're not wearing any make-up and when you're in your favourite old t-shirt and shorts. Remember, being beautiful on the inside is what counts the most. Make a pact with your friends to try one day a week make-up free!

Myth 3: No one ever gets sad like me.
Truth: If people never got sad, they would be robots! It's completely normal to have emotional ups and downs. If you're honest with your friends about how you sometimes feel, they may open up to you as well. This will help you as a group to encourage and be there for each other and build trust.

Myth 4: Being in a relationship will make me happy.
Truth: When you have someone declaring their undying love for you every waking moment, it's sure to boost your self-esteem! But being a confident, happy young woman starts with you.

Myth 5: No one takes me seriously.
Truth: Sometimes it feels like no one listens to you, or gets you, and they just laugh at you, even when you’re being serious. If you're feeling misunderstood, try taking two steps back and looking at your situation from a different perspective. Maybe a chat with those people that you feel don’t get you may help clear things up and give you the confidence to keep speaking up when you have something great to say.

So next time you're feeling under the trap of one of these myths, take a look in the mirror and tell yourself: "I'm beautiful, I'm strong, I'm able!