Maddie’s Girl Talk Story

Like many other girls, I began my journey with self-esteem and confidence in elementary and middle school. Unfortunately, experiencing these problems at a young age is far too common. Struggles with friends made me feel as though I wasn’t enough. I was always the girl who was friends with everyone. I never belonged in one specific friend group. While this might seem great, I always felt like I was on the fringes, never feeling like I truly belonged. Also, l put immense pressure on myself to achieve my best academically and outside of school. As a result, I struggled with anxiety and self-esteem, as I never felt like I measured up to the expectations I set for myself and that others set for me. 

As young girls caught up in our own struggles, instead of supporting each other, I think we tend to compare ourselves to others. It’s cliche, but it’s true: comparison is the thief of joy. I fell into this trap, and I longed for a community where I would be accepted, validated, and where I could be vulnerable. Especially as young girls, I believe that it is so important to be surrounded by others who will uplift you, encourage you, and push you to grow. It can be easy to focus on yourself, especially when struggling with self-esteem, but I have learned that you’re never alone in your struggle. It’s important to remember that everyone is going through something. The deepest connections and growth happen in moments of vulnerability. When we stop comparing ourselves to others and instead celebrate each other and ourselves, our self-esteem grows. I think an encouraging, accepting community is the core of what Girl Talk provides. Being part of this community has given me the vulnerable, intentional community that I craved. 

Through middle school and high school, I slowly became more confident and secure in myself. I’ve been able to build deeper relationships and become a stronger leader. My experience within Girl Talk was a huge part of this, and it has shaped me in so many ways. Girl Talk has given me opportunities to grow into a confident leader, knowing that I had unwavering support. While I still struggle with self-esteem and putting too much pressure on myself, Girl Talk has helped me navigate through all of this. When you join Girl Talk, you have the opportunity to become anchored in a solid community of girls that empower and build each other up.

Girl Talk has been inspiring girls like Maddie to be confident leaders for over two decades, and in partnership with Dove and Sam’s Club, we will be doubling our reach nationwide. Join us in empowering thousands of more girls to build confidence and self-esteem through our peer-to-peer programs.

Learn more by visiting: https://samsclub.com/DoveSelfEsteem