When I think back on all of the things that have molded me into who I am today: the pain, life lessons, happiness and joy, struggles, and the list goes on; I tend to hone in on the bad. Why did I do that? What made that outcome any better for others rather than me? Why me? Why now? Why can’t I choose happiness more? Why…….
The reality is that I still don’t know the answer to any of those questions regardless of the outcomes. My mind plays tricks ensuring that I remember all of the pain and dark moments. It convinces me that to bypass everything amazing in my life to focus on the what-ifs. It’s a terrible way to live. It’s a constant circle of wanting to be optimistic, wanting to be more, wanting to be the person everyone else sees me as. I want to accept myself.
So there’s the choice: Accept that you can be happy and that bad times truly do make you stronger. Accept that you have the courage and tools to get back on track. Accept the ability in yourself to find happiness even in the bad. Accept the choice to change….or this mental hell will eventually take its toll.
“Understanding is the first step to acceptance, and only with acceptance can there be recovery.”
So today I have to understand that my mental journey is mot one I have to do alone. It is filled with support as long as I can accept it as part of my process. I have to ask for help. I can do this! Understanding that the voices in my head cannot define me is the biggest struggle I have. I believe, to some extent, that I am not good enough for my family, my job, my future, even though everything around me tells me differently. The people that love me, the random praise for working hard, being someone that others can confide in. Now why can’t I be that confidant for myself? Should be easy, right? Doubtful, but all I can do is try.
This is just another step in my process to acceptance. Writing these words and defining how I see myself today can only help add context in to where I need to go. I have too much to lose in this life to give up now.
10 ways to practice self-acceptance
1. Embrace what makes you unique
A good place to start is to think of the things that make you special. Ask yourself how these differences may benefit you in the future and how they add value to your life.
2. Let go of the things you can’t change
It’s important not to focus on the things you can’t change. You may find it helpful to write a letter to yourself about letting go of what you can’t change and welcoming the things you love about yourself.
3. Identify your strengths
Write down the things you’re good at and/or love to do (e.g. sports, music, art, etc.). Practicing these activities regularly can help you feel more confident in your abilities.
4. Set goals
Set a few realistic goals for yourself and create a plan to meet them (this may also help with your self-esteem). Don’t forget to reward yourself when you meet a goal!
5. Celebrate your accomplishments
Make a list of everything you’ve accomplished so far and add to it regularly. Post your list someplace where you can see it often. Be proud of yourself!
6. Plan ahead
If you can, try to avoid the people and/or things that challenge your self-acceptance. Memorize a few go-to thoughts you can say to yourself if you begin to doubt or question your worth (some people call these thoughts affirmations).
7. Think positively
Remember to speak kindly to yourself and turn any self-critical, negative thoughts into positive thoughts. Don’t be too hard on yourself or compare yourself to others.
8. Be kind to yourself
Consider a few things you can do to treat yourself and spend quality time on your own (e.g. taking a warm bath, going for a walk in nature, etc.). It’s also important to take care of yourself by eating right, sleeping enough and exercising regularly.
9. Get involved
Volunteer, get a part-time job or try a new extracurricular activity to learn more about yourself, what you enjoy and what you’re good at.
10. Find support
You can always share your feelings with people you trust such as family and friends. (You could even try asking them to name two or three things they like about you.)
Everyone’s journey to self-acceptance is different, but you can learn to be comfortable in your own skin.