Self-acceptance is often marketed as an ideal today- and for good reason- but there seems to be an incomplete realization of just what it entails. True self-acceptance will allow your confidence to flourish and it will compel you to reach your greatest potential.
So just what does it mean to have self-acceptance?
To have self-acceptance is to discern who you are, acknowledging your strongest qualities as well as your shortcomings- without harsh criticism and disparagement. To accept yourself is to acknowledge- and make peace with- all the aspects of your appearance and your personality, even those elements that others might not find so endearing. Affirming who you are as an individual is understanding that your worth is innate, and not derived from abilities, actions, or accomplishments.
What ISN’T self-acceptance?
Choosing to recognize your character in full is NOT an excuse to become stagnant in life. Rather, reaching a thorough understanding of yourself is an opportunity to gain the inner peace and self-assurance needed to better develop as a human being.
Why is the self-acceptance of both positive and negative attributes beneficial?
- Being aware of your weaknesses without drowning in self-hatred over them will empower you to take steps to conquer the very things that have hindered you in the past.
- Recognizing your mistakes in grace without feeling utterly defeated will give you the strength to address disappointments and find victory in the future.
- Having a clear view of yourself provides a foundation of humility, which will promote healthier relationships with friends, family, and significant others.
Self-acceptance can position you for greater peace, advancement, and satisfaction in your life and relationships. If you are unsure of just where to begin, consider a few suggestions below:
1. Practice regularly extending compassion to yourself.
Do you find your thoughts in a vicious cycle of negative self-talk? Try to break this cycle and replace these damaging habits with healthier ones.
- Identify the characteristics and abilities you possess that are unique to you. Take time to appreciate those attributes WITHOUT comparison to another person’s strong suits.
- When your mind returns to self-critical patterns, patiently redirect your focus.
- Accept grace when you fall short of goals or make mistakes. Rather than denying those experiences, use them to gain perspective and evaluate how you might handle things differently the next time.
2. Practice demonstrating love for yourself. Do you shy away from taking joy in who you are and treating yourself with kindness?
- Consider that you would extend consideration and gentleness to a friend and treat any other person with dignity. It is only right that you would do the same for yourself.
- Evaluate and affirm your beliefs. Take time to reflect upon your individuality, your worth, and your purpose in this world. As you continue to grow in the knowledge of your inherent value, it will help you to walk forward in loving confidence.
Self-acceptance is a journey. Choosing to extend compassion and love toward yourself makes room for a realistic view of your character without a burden over imperfections. The sense of peace that comes with self-acceptance can, in turn, position you for positive progress and personal growth today!
