Dove Movement for Self Esteem: A Letter to Your 13 Year Old Self
The Dove Movement for Self-Esteem is still on my mind. That’s how moving my morning was with the G(irls) 20 Summit two weeks ago. Did you read about it? I keep mulling over the whole notion of talking to my 13 year old self. Based on what I know now, what message would I give my 13 year old self?
Here’s the thing. 70% of girls believe they don’t measure up in some way. Some way being beauty, physique, brains, skills… 70%. That is scary and we need to do something about it. We need to start the conversation with young girls and mentor them in some way to help that number drop. And it needs to drop drastically.
During the meeting, each delegate from the 20 countries shared their own message. I have summarized some of the messages in a list below. While you read through the messages, think about what you would say to YOUR 13 year old self. Based on your wisdom now, what message would you share with 13 year olds around the world?
I think it would be powerful to compile a list of our messages. Leave your message as a comment and together, let’s build an empowering letter to 13 year olds around the world.
Here’s how strongly I believe in this: I will randomly pick one contributor to win a $10 Starbucks card. Comments will be accepted until Monday, July 12th at 9pm EST. I will use random.org to pick the winner. You will be notified by email and have 48 hours to get back to me.
The only entry is to leave a comment to your 13 year old self. I look forward to hearing from you. And on behalf of young girls around the world… Thank you. Thank you for taking the time.
 Germany |
Don’t focus on what you can’t do, focus on what you CAN do! |
 Brazil |
Don’t give up on your own beliefs and values just to fit in. |
 China |
Grab every opportunity you have. |
 United Kingdom |
You’re never too young to be a change maker! “You’re never too little to make a difference. If you don’t believe me, you’ve never been in bed with a mosquito! |
 India |
The most important letter in the alphabet is I. I is the foundation of your life. |
 Russia |
If you want to be successful, you need to face challenge and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. That’s how you learn! |
 Indonesia |
Be the change you want to see in the world. |
 Romania |
Be confident – Dream Big. It will be hard but it’s possible. |
 Argentina |
Believe in yourself. Share ideas, follow dreams, face challenges… but know that you are not alone. |
 Canada |
Hear what people around you are saying, but listen to yourself. |
About Shelagh Cummins
Shelagh Cummins is the founder, editor and Mum-in-chief at Practicalmum.com – an online community parenting resource & blog. She is also the Principal at BizTrainHer.com, a boutique firm specializing in desiging, developing and facilitating training for women in business.
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Imagine a World « One in 36 Million
on July 16, 2010
Everyone calls this the awkward age but it doesn’t mean that you can’t dream big and strive towards your goals. It doesn’t meant that you can’t carry yourself around with confidence for fear that someone might say something. Be delightful, be studious, be kind to every person you meet. Popularity and fitting in are such big deals…at the moment, for a few brief minutes, and then you grow up and realized what really matters. Start mattering early on
What a beautiful message… my eyes are misting up! THANK YOU for sharing!!
Nothing that you think matters right now actually matters. Friends, crushes, clothing, your hair, your zits, your pudge… it all goes away sooner or later. Worry about school, your hobbies, your FUTURE. It might not seem important now, but building a good foundation for the rest of your life starts earlier than you think. Once you get that in place, you’ll have friends, boyfriends, the nice clothes, a good salon, facials, and a gym membership!
Fantastic! Love it. Sort of like the best thing about leaving high school is you get a total fresh start where nobody knows you or who you were labeled!! Thanks for sharing!
It is hard to see now but your life will be full of surprises and adventures! Be different, continue to learn and be confident in yourself. Keep dreaming and know that great things, experiences, travels and the love of your life await you! You are beautiful just the way you are!
Hear, hear! Thanks for a great message – love that there is so much for young girls to look forward to! Life is what we make it!
Congratulations Chrissy143! You are the proud winner of a Starbuck’s card! I have sent you an email requesting your mailing address.
Thank you to all who shared their thoughts. It is much appreciated!
Shelagh´s last blog ..An Open Letter to 13 Year Olds Around the World