Drawing Exercises

Ways/exercises for Getting rid of insecurity, low self esteem, acquiring confidence? PLEASE.. :(?

People tell me that im pretty, but i see myself as really ugly. When guys talk to me i get all shy and stupid haha. A guy told me how he liked a shirt i had, that it suited me, and i just said it wasnt true, etc. I never accept really compliments.. When i draw (i like drawing), or write something, i never want anyone to see it, or look at it while im even signing something! I hate going to places where there are loads of people, because im always convinced they are staring at me, even though i KNOW its not true, its just in my head. When i walk in the streets i always feel as if im walking in a strange way, and that people will think im strange... Sometimes when i have to talk in front of many people i start crying...I hate being judged... :( How can i change this? Do you know anyone who was like me, and then in some way, has changed??? please help me, tell me what to do... tell me some exercises(lol).. Dont say i have to go to a psychologist because i dont want to worry my mum :( i tried doing sports....but AGAIN i stopped, but not because i didnt like it... just cause i hated being there with loads of people...i felt judged lol... like always... i am 14.. why?

Public Comments

1. How old are you? This probably won't help you -- but part of your insecurity and low self-esteem can be attributed to your age :) Most people feel this way at some point (or all points) when they are teenagers. Hell, I still feel this way and I'm over 20 now. You should focus on the fact that you DO get compliments -- not everyone does. Then at some point, do something you wouldn't normally do, share something you wouldn't normally share. It will take time to change, but it will only change if you start changing your habits, even a tiny bit. So for example, the next time someone gives you a compliment, just say thanks, and see how you feel. If you can't, just wait and try again the next time, make it a goal.
2. If people compliment you when you are not asking for it, chances are there may be some truth in it. A good step is to accept compliments when you think they are sincere. This is a problem of self image. This all comes from within. So I think what I suggested is a good start. If you think everyone is out to get you, and deny the good things people tell you, all you will see in yourself is a negative being. Maybe think of some good qualities about yourself? Make sure to write them down. That way you have evidence. It is not bad to see the negative in yourself, but you need to balance that out by seeing the positive also. It is hard. But these things come from within. Having people who support you helps a lot, too.
3. Most people in your age group think that everyone is looking at them. It is natural and some of those feelings will go away with age. Just think about this. If all of your peers are thinking about themselves they don't have much time to think about you. I can't remember who said, " You wouldn't worry very much what others thought of you if you knew how seldom they did."