How do you get over insecurity?

How can I get over my insecurity about my looks?

• I'm kind of overweight but not at all obese. I'm well proportioned just plus sized. I used to be very thin but even then, I wasn't confident. My dad always made fun of me and also my peers because I had a chubby face but I really wasn't fat. But now I really regret that I didn't keep my weight and I feel extremely nervous around people. I don't wanna get out of the house and I don't ever date anyone because I think no one likes me and I will get rejected. I don't eat much and I walk everyday but I guess it's just how I am. I know the problem isn't really about my looks but about my self esteem but it's been completely ruined by my dad and other people. How can I ever fix this? I can't live my life like that. Please help! Thank you

• Answer:

  I encourage you to sit down with a slip of paper and write down the reasons behind your insecurities. Your dad, your weight, fear of rejection, etc. Now I want you to consider putting the effort you've made into complaining about these insecurities and feeling sad that they exist, into finding a way to get rid of them. Go one by one, read people's stories online, talk to professionals online, do what you can to make sure that every step you take is one to a better life. To help you out, I suggest follow a healthy diet and jog every morning, if you're uncomfortable with your weight, go that extra mile. As for your dad, you need to understand that parents are meant to be supportive and encouraging, if yours isn't I need you to figure out a way to shun his demeaning habits by setting a certain mentality that helps distance you from your inner strength and the outside world. One day you will feel confident in your own body and you will laugh at those who insult you and try to bring you down, one day my friend. Work for it.