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Dear Dish-It, I Have No Self-Esteem

Help for teens on family and dating issues.

Self Esteem Help

Dear Dish-It,

I have no self-esteem. I don't dance at dances. I can't talk to guys, even if they're not cute. I won't wear shirts that say Hottie or nothin' like that!
JustinLvr02

Dear JustinLvr02,

You need to take it easy on yourself. First, start giving yourself credit for things. If someone gives you a compliment - listen to it, don't blow it off. And start complimenting yourself. Tell yourself, "I look great today" or "I really aced that exam. Good for me!" Also, concentrate on the sports, hobbies or activities you are good at and enjoy. All of that should help build your self-esteem. The fact that you can't talk to guys - even if they aren't cute - just means you're shy. It's not a horrible thing, some guys even think it's cute. Take your time, eventually it'll become easier to talk to 'em. And as for not wearing shirts that say "Hottie" on 'em... that's just good fashion sense, girl! If you're really concerned with your style, why not swing by Style Street for some tips on what's hot this year? Sounds like you're just a little unsure of who you are right now, but that's something that everyone goes through. Just remember, believing in yourself helps others to believe in you too.

So, ya got a burnin' question? Need some love direction? Thinkin' 'bout stuff like depression, sex, how ya feel 'bout YOURSELF (that's called "self-esteem"), boyfriends, girlfriends, losin' old friends, bullyin' or peer pressure but too scared to ask the parents? Don't be scared to Dish-It here. Send all of your questions to deardish@kidzworld.com. But remember, if ya hang out in Chat with other Kidzworld members who know ya by your "username," ya might wanna use a secret nickname when ya write in. That way no one will ever know it's you. And, just in case ya don't know, Dish-It gets a lotta letters every day, and she can't answer 'em all. So keep checkin' the column cuz she's prob'ly answerin' somethin' very similar to your question while you're out doin' somethin' else. K? And thanks! Ya keep her outta trouble! Oh! And if ya got words of wisdom you wanna share, we'll dish 'em up, too.