I have struggled with my body image throughout my life, as I’m pretty sure most of us have. When struggling with our body image, there’s a specific place that scares all of us a bit: the beach. It took me a while to finally feel confident at the beach. And if you simply do not feel confident enough at the beach to relax and enjoy the feel of the sun on your face, I’ve got 10 tips to help you boost your confidence. This post is all about how to feel confident at the beach!
Create a confidence-boosting playlist
Create a playlist that makes you feel like the main character in a movie where the plot is just you having a great time. Music has the power to lift your spirits and strut along the beach like you own it (even if you’re just renting a tiny spot on the sand).
Surround yourself with people who make you feel good
If your friends are constantly pointing out their body flaws, talking about diets, and just being negative, it might be time to rethink who you surround yourself with. Your beach time should be a no-judgment zone.
You should surround yourself with people who lift you up and help you feel more confident, not with people who drag you down and make you feel more self-conscious.
Related: 5 Tips for Making Friends in College
When in doubt, wear a one-piece swimsuit
Let’s start with the thing that scares many people the most: beachwear. If bikinis feel overwhelming and make you feel self-conscious about your body, wear a one-piece swimsuit instead. They’re classic, stylish, and I’m sure you’ll definitely feel comfortable in one. There are also plenty of styles to choose from depending on how much skin you’d like to show.
I recommend choosing high-quality one-pieces as low-quality ones often dig into your skin which can be uncomfortable.
Wear sunglasses
Believe it or not, a great pair of sunglasses can actually boost your confidence when you’re running around on the beach. I believe accessories make the outfit and you can never go wrong with sunglasses. They just make you look mysterious and it’s fun to people watch without anyone noticing.
You know I love affordable, high-quality items, and DIFF is a brand that does just that. Most of their sunglasses are under $100, are scratch-resistant, and have 1-year warranty. They currently have a holiday sale and are offering 50% off sitewide.
Prepare for next summer
I truly believe we are capable of changing our appearance and body. However, I also believe that for you to effectively lose weight or change yourself, it has to come from loving yourself enough to do it. The only caveat is if you have a health condition that makes it harder and less possible, in which case it is important to consult your doctor.
I’ve been there, saying I will lose a certain amount of weight to rock a bikini next summer. Then, time rolls around and it hasn’t happened. It is extremely important to be disciplined with your habits. A while ago, my therapist said something I will never forget “Discipline is a form of self-love”.
So, start getting into a routine a few months before you hit the beach, choose a workout you enjoy, focus on nourishing your body with healthy foods, and I’m sure your future self will thank you.
Protect your skin
Confidence isn’t just about looking good, it’s about feeling good. And nothing feels less good than sunburn. So, slather on that sunscreen like it’s your job. Whenever possible, I also stay under an umbrella and wear a wide-brim hat to protect my face from the sun. That’s not to say you should hide from the sun the whole time, but just be safe and protect your skin.
One of my favorite facial sunscreens is Tocobo’s Watery Sunscreen. Tocobo is a Korean skincare brand and this sunscreen is light, non-greasy, doesn’t leave a white cast, and is only $20. For the body, I usually go for the Avenoo Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Body Sunscreen, because it is light, doesn’t leave a sticky feeling, and works great for sensitive skin.
Accessorize
If wearing a stylish outfit is something that often makes you feel more confident and like the main character, then bring that energy to the beach. Wear stylish beach outfits. When it comes to the beach, accessories complete the outfit!
Add a wide-brimmed hat, a funky beach bag, a fun sarong, or a crochet maxi dress.
Positive self-talk
Give yourself a little pep talk. Your body is beach-ready the moment you decide to go to the beach – period. It is easier said than done but thinking positively is over half the battle. Believe it or not, you have full control over your thoughts and you can truly choose to think positively about yourself and to embrace your body as it is right now.
Choose to have fun
Engage in beach activities that make you forget about how you look and focus on how much fun you’re having on your next trip. Whether it’s building a sandcastle, playing beach volleyball, or reading a good book, do what makes you happy.
My sister and I gave kayaking a try on our trip to Colombia instead of laying in the sand and tanning – we fell a thousand times but it was fun!
Everyone is too busy worrying about themselves
Remember, that people are so usually wrapped up in their own problems that you rarely enter their radar at all, so no matter how you look, who cares? As long as you feel good about yourself, no one else is going to notice you very much at all. It’s liberating, right?
As we wrap up our guide on how to feel confident at the beach, remember that feeling confident is all about embracing your unique self and enjoying the moment. So, put on that swimsuit, step onto the sand with your head held high, and let the ocean’s breeze remind you of the beautiful, confident person you are.
