Do you remember what it feels like being taunted or picked on because you are "different" or do you remember how awful you felt being picked last in gym class?

When you are not accepted you feel defective, like someone stamped REJECTED on your forehead. It can be a major blow to your being, including your self-esteem and self-confidence and it can leave you feeling unsettled, like being lost in a foreign place; no one knows you and you do not know anyone.

You feel alone, miserable and scared and you may withdraw and hide who you are and keep your feelings from others out of fear that you will be rejected again.

This dismissal of who you are makes you feel very stripped down, vulnerable and empty; like there is no place to turn. You wonder... "What can I do to be accepted?" and "What is wrong with me?"

There are all sorts of reasons for not feeling accepted, but the bottom line is... Rejection is awful! Nobody wants to be rejected, yet everybody has been rejected at some point in their lives; perhaps it was in a personal relationship or for a job, or even a friendship. It never feels good, but guess what? Nothing is wrong with you!

So, how do you go about stopping your negative thoughts from taking over? How do you stop thinking things like you are not capable of achievement and you are afraid to even try to put yourself out there again?

How you look, feel and act can make a big difference in feeling accepted or how you let it affect you if somebody does not like you. There are things you can do to attract more people to you.

When you find yourself in a situation where you are starting to become nervous, be mindful of your facial expressions and body language; these are as important as what you say to people.

Decide to have a positive and confident attitude and your body will react likewise.

How you dress conveys a message to people. You want to dress with style and confidence, making smart fashion choices, yet showing a little of your moxie!

Don't be too flashy; people may be put off and afraid to approach you. Choose something that still shows who you are, but in a toned down, "put together" manner.

For the past 22 years, I have been assisting countless prominent professionals, many of whom include famous public figures and celebrities as their personal Image & Wardrobe Consultant and as a Fashion Designer. I have a vast knowledge of all aspects of image and fashion from high-end couture to business appropriate attire to proper party apparel and more!

For more on building self esteem, visit: http://emagecouture.com/.