Confidence is a great thing, and loving yourself for who you are is a concept everyone can get behind. While there’s a variety of music that speaks on various social issues, many don’t often highlight the work of women defying the status quo. Though it often feels necessary to conform to society in order to gain acceptance, these female idols have taken the liberty of encouraging people to embrace their differences. Even if society doesn’t embrace you, confidence can start from within. Here are five songs that particularly stand out as encouraging and uplifting, so heed the wise words of these female artists and start loving yourself.

“Egoist” - Olivia Hye (LOONA)

LOONA is a group known to promote feelings of love and acceptance, so of course their music would also reflect these sentiments. This song from LOONA member Olivia Hye, with a feature from Jinsoul, is all about loving yourself over someone else. The song describes breaking up with someone and the hurt and pain that follows, but then taking a turn and realizing that it’s healthier to let that person go while embracing yourself instead. It’s about taking power back and living on despite being hurt, which is a message that resonates with many people. Such an honest and uplifting song definitely deserves to be played over and over again. 

“Yes I am” - MAMAMOO

MAMAMOO are the queens of doing their own thing, and their discography is filled with songs that highlight their confidence. Though it’s impossible to choose a favorite, “Yes I am” does a particularly great job of celebrating uniqueness. The song explores different ways to describe a confident woman, and basically serves as a female empowerment anthem that roots for women to appreciate the little things about themselves. Each member introduces herself, whether it be through style or personality, encouraging listeners to do the same. If you want a step-by-step guide on how to become a happier and more charismatic version of yourself, this song is a great choice!

“Be Yourself” - Chungha

Through a collaboration with Sprite, Chungha manages to empower and refresh listeners. She explicitly sings “be yourself” throughout the song, mentioning a “variety of colors” and encouraging listeners to not be afraid to show the world the real version of themselves. The message in this song is clear as day: be whoever you are no matter how complicated or uncomfortable others are by it. At the end of the day, your happiness is what’s most important. If you need an extra bit of encouragement, just remember that if no one else does, Chungha wants to see the real you!

“WANNABE” - ITZY

ITZY has stood out from the crowd since debut, and it’s why the group is loved and admired by so many! It’s possible to find encouragement and girl power from every one of their songs since it’s literally their brand, but “WANNABE” is the latest of the bunch. As these girls set their sights on world domination, they simultaneously uplift and inspire their fans. This song asks people to mind their own business while also powerfully making a statement about choosing to be themselves. Even in a sea of haters and naysayers, ITZY wants everyone to have the freedom to do what makes them happy. The message is simple but valid: you’re perfect the way you are.

“No” - CLC

Forget your stereotypes or unfair expectations, CLC is having none of it! Though they are a strong and confident group of women, they refuse to let the outside world define them and their womanhood, and this song encompasses just that. CLC says no to high heels, red lips, and whatever else one might use to put them in a box of self-expression. These girls can’t be defined by one color or expectation—they’re much more nuanced than that. This song is a lesson to anyone who underestimates the power of a self-assured woman, and serves as a perfect reminder to express yourself in the way you see fit, despite what the world thinks about it. 

All in all, each of these songs does a great job of adding on to the narrative of celebrating unique gifts and qualities that help us stick out from a crowd. Recognizing differences and embracing them is the best way to live your best life, so remember the words of these artists whenever you need a pat on the back. Self-love isn’t selfish!