Shine bright this summer!

I'm a natural introvert and often feel a little nervous before going out to socialise. But after a year of lockdown, in which I had a new baby, I've been feeling even more nervous than usual. My anxiety is slightly aggravated by the fact summer is approaching. As summer arrives each year, I always find myself feeling a little mithered about the thought of wearing my summer clothes. After hiding away under loose, baggy clothes and plenty of layers over the cooler months, when warmer days arrive I certainly feel on show and exposed in my dresses, vest tops and shorts. This year is no exception. Very recently though, I read something on the internet that has changed my mindset. The quote stated that 'next summer isn't promised' meaning that we should embrace this very summer, the here and now and spend less time worrying about how we look and more time celebrating our individuality and the wonderful things that make us unique. It really made me think. Do I really want to spend this summer feeling self-conscious about my body or do I want to enjoy the warm weather, lazy summer days and adventures with my beautiful boys? They will never be this little again and I will never be this young again. Time to start celebrating the wonderful things in my life and the wonderful memories to be made!

After the recent 15 months, I think it's safe to say we are all feeling a little battered and bruised as we navigate our way back into social situations. After many months of only socialising via the internet, it's no wonder we are feeling a little nervous as we emerge from lockdown. So what does this mean when it comes to dating and meeting new people?

Meeting new people can be nerve wracking but it can also be a life-changing experience. Who knows, that person you have connected with online, or met in the pub and exchanged numbers with, might turn out to be the love of your life! Whilst you may be feeling nervous when dating new people, being kind to yourself, reminding yourself you are worthy and beautiful will surely give you the confidence to shine. What's great about dating in the age of the internet is that you can meet people via online dating sites and determine whether you have a connection with them before even meeting. Online dating sites enable you to meet likeminded individuals that share the same interests as you or come from your area for example. You can even use dating sites to meet individuals of a similar age to you or those who also have a disability, for example. SingleDisabled helps individuals with a disability meet and connect. I love how easy internet dating is, there are so many benefits!

This summer I'm definitely going to try and be kinder to myself. We should extend the same kindness to ourselves as we do to our friends and family; you appreciate and love them for the wonderful people they are and embrace their uniqueness, differences and individuality. So why not do the same for yourself?

So whether you're feeling a little nervous about a trip to the pub, a romantic restaurant, a day on the beach or a first date, remember to hold your head high and know that you're wonderful! 

*Collaborative Post