Does your teen struggle with confidence? Is she constantly comparing herself to others? Does he put himself down?

Confidence isn’t just a life skill. It’s an essential component to nailing a job interview, communicating effectively with peers, and succeeding in life.

Today’s teens face challenges to their self-esteem at every turn – from the constant filters and fake perfection they see on social media to the never-ending quest for likes, follows, and comments.

It’s easy to forget that social media is like a movie highlight reel, with tons of crappy footage left on the cutting room floor.

We can’t monitor our kids’ social media 24/7, much as we’d sometimes like to.

But here’s a quick tip you can do to help your teens decode those deceptive media messages on your next trip to the grocery store.

Pick up a magazine and analyze the headlines.

“Get a beach-ready body in just 3 weeks!”

Well, who are they to say what kind of body is suitable for the beach?

EVERY body is a beach-worthy body!

Hint: That means so is YOURS. You can model self-acceptance by putting on your own swimsuit (Skip the negative commentary!) and enjoying the pool.

“Rock your tank-tops with sculpted arms!”

News flash: you don’t need arms of steel to wear a tank top. Wear whatever you want. Arizona summers are HOT!

Start these simple conversations with your teens to help them see that these messages are mostly designed to make you feel bad about yourself so you’ll buy the magazine. (That’s what MOST advertising is about, honestly.)

Chances are, your teens don’t negatively judge the tank-top wearing gal in the grocery store for not having define deltoids.

But like most of us, they probably judge themselves more harshly than they judge others.

These simple, quick conversations can help your teens change the way they see media messages and learn to accept themselves as they are – imperfect, quirky, and amazing – no filter required.

For more resources to help your teens be more confident, visit RediscoverRadianceTeens.com.