Be Yourself: Find what interests you

Finding What You Love 💫

How Trying New Things Can Boost Your Confidence and Body Image

When you find something you truly enjoy — whether it’s a sport, art, or hobby — it can completely change how you feel about yourself. Having interests that make you feel alive and proud can help you build confidence, connect with others, and even feel more comfortable in your own skin. You don’t need to have it all figured out yet. Seriously — most people your age are still exploring what they like (and that’s exactly what this time of your life is for). Think of it like a personal adventure: you get to test out new things, learn what lights you up, and discover more about who you are.

Move Your Body — Because It Feels Good, Not Because You “Should” 🏃‍♀️

Exercise isn’t just about fitness or appearance — it’s about feeling strong, energised, and confident. Moving your body in ways that feel fun can do wonders for your mood and mental health.

Here are a few ideas to try:

  • Martial arts — builds strength, focus, and confidence.

  • Team sports (like soccer, basketball, or volleyball) — great for making friends and learning teamwork.

  • Solo sports (like running, dance, or swimming) — awesome if you enjoy personal goals and self-improvement.

  • Outdoor adventures (like hiking, skating, or rock climbing) — perfect if you love exploring and nature.

Remember: you don’t have to be “good” at something to enjoy it. The best exercise is the one that makes you smile and feel good in your body.

Get Creative 🎨🎭🎶

Expressing yourself creatively can boost your self-esteem and give you a healthy outlet for stress. You might:

  • Learn an instrument or start a band

  • Try painting, photography, or digital art

  • Join a drama club or try out for a school play

  • Write stories, songs, or poetry

  • Start a podcast or YouTube channel about something you love

Creativity helps you see your worth beyond looks — it’s about what you can create and feel.

Give Back 🤝

Helping others feels good — and it helps you too. Volunteering can grow your confidence, make you feel connected, and remind you that you can make a difference.

Try things like:

  • Volunteering at an animal shelter or food bank

  • Getting involved in local clean-up events

  • Helping out at school or community fundraisers

  • Mentoring younger students

It’s not just about giving time — it’s about building purpose and kindness, which can totally change how you see yourself.

Use Your Brain 🧠

If you’re into problem-solving or ideas, explore clubs or challenges that stretch your mind:

  • Robotics or coding clubs

  • Debate or writing groups

  • Book clubs or science fairs

These spaces let you connect with others who share your interests and can build confidence in what your mind can do — not just how you look.

Style That Makes You Feel Good 👟

Your style is one of the coolest ways to express who you are — not what size you are. Finding clothes, hairstyles, or accessories that make you feel confident and comfortable can really boost how you see yourself. Style isn’t about following every new trend or trying to look like someone else online — it’s about discovering what feels most you.

When you wear things that make you feel good, it shows. Maybe that’s comfy jeans and a hoodie, maybe it’s bright colours, or maybe it’s something totally unique that only you would wear. The best style choices are the ones that help you feel relaxed, confident, and happy in your own skin.

If you ever catch yourself comparing your look to others, try to shift your focus: style isn’t a competition. Everyone has different bodies, personalities, and tastes — and that’s what makes fashion fun! Celebrate what makes you you.

Try experimenting with colours, charity shop finds, or DIY accessories. Mix things up until you find what feels right. When you start dressing for how you want to feel instead of how you think you should look, your confidence and body image grow naturally. 💛

Remember: You Don’t Need to Be the Best

Trying new things can feel scary — especially if you worry about not being “good enough.” But everyone starts somewhere. What matters most is that you try. Every new skill, friend, or experience helps you grow and feel more comfortable being you. Finding your interests isn’t just about hobbies — it’s about discovering what makes you happy, what gives your life meaning, and what helps you feel confident in your body and mind.

So go ahead — sign up for that club, pick up that guitar, or say yes to something new. You never know what might become your next big passion. 🌟

Useful Resources + links:

💻 Website: For advice by young people on finding your passion - click here

💻 Website: Lust for Life - Discover your passion and dare to dream - click here

💻 Website: Lust for Life - Noticing what brings us joy - click here