As a child, I read fairy tales as I grew up in a media-led society, obsessed with physical beauty, and unconsciously believed that being "beautiful" would make all my dreams come true.

Surely I would find inner peace, happiness, love and success if I just looked like a supermodel or an actress!
To my surprise, I later discovered that many of my models to follow physically beautiful led lonely, unhappy or even miserable lives, so I began to seek a new inspiration that included women whose inner qualities made them beautiful.

On this path, I learned that true beauty comes from within and shines through our outward being. It comes from the symmetry of your soul, not the symmetry of your physical characteristics. This tangible beauty can be felt by all those in our presence.

On that path to a deeper understanding of what it means to be truly beautiful, I have found five ways to highlight and express that inner beauty:
1) Smile!

The smile illuminates the face, brings happiness to others and allows your inner beauty to shine. I'll be the first to admit that when I come across a stranger down the street, I wonder if I should wait for them to smile at me first. However, I have learned that if I smile first, most of the time I will be smiled back. Then: be brave and smile at everyone. And while you're doing it, find humor in life and laugh a lot too:

2) Be nice  

Research shows that kindness increases energy, happiness, pleasure and life expectancy, while reducing anxiety, depression, stress, pain and blood pressure.
Acts of kindness and generosity magnify God's virtues within ourselves and guide us to inner peace. The way we treat others is a reflection of our inner being and our relationship with our Creator.

3) Grows spiritually
Just as eating well keeps us healthy, we all need spiritual nourishment. I've learned that people can feel your healthy level of self-acceptance when they first meet you, so if you're spiritually connected and comfortable with your own skin, others are more likely to accept and appreciate it. Take loving care of your physical body, for it is the temple of your soul. Focus on the good things in your life and have good thoughts. Surround yourself with positive people who support and encourage you. Feed yourself spiritually with the wisdom of spiritual and religious writings. I recommend booking a time each day to do something that fills your heart with joy, such as praying, watching a fun TV show, taking a relaxing bath, going to bed early, playing with a pet, snuggled up with your partner, etc.

4) Be grateful

Inner beauty quotes

The more grateful we are, the more miracles we attract to our lives. I share this notion with a pampered child who endlessly demands something, rather than a grateful child whom others want to serve. However, practicing gratitude can be a challenge when everything seems to go wrong. Right now, gratitude is the last emotion I want to feel, but it's the first thing I should remember to do. Nine times out of ten, when I allow the feeling of gratitude to enter my heart again, my circumstances improve.

5) Serve humanity
The Bahá'í Faith emphasizes service to humanity as a means towards our own personal development and as a means of bringing happiness to others. However, I don't think the service is necessarily a one-size-fits-all effort. I recommend looking for service projects and opportunities that connect with your soul. For example, I love teaching children, caring for animals, and helping young people. Each of us can't do everything, but we can do our part to change the world. Service can be a beautiful experience that fills your heart with joy. This joy will emanate from your heart and touch all who cross your path.