I know you’ve done this before, scrolling through social media, checking out some picture-perfect human being who seems to have it all figured out. Okay, I’ll admit it (I think you should too), the first thing I do when I meet a person of interest is to Google them and see what comes up. If there’s a LinkedIn page, I’ll visit and see where they work, their accomplishments, academics, etc. Depending on my interest in them, I might go ahead and check out their social network page – just so I know. Sometimes I silently smile and say to myself ‘I’m okay’, other times I wonder where I went wrong..
We meet different people every day, some with seemingly perfect jobs, big titles, and accolades to their names. Other times you’ll find those that seem to have a perfect social life, perhaps a good home, and somehow seem well-rounded in matters of health. At times it makes you question ‘where was I when they were making their money?’ IKYK. It's enough to make anyone feel like they're falling short.
The truth is, this is a relentless pursuit of an "ideal life", which is an illusion, and striving for it can leave you feeling burnt out and inadequate. There's immense power in embracing who you are right now, not some idealized future version. For many women, that means accepting that motherhood and a corporate career can coexist, but they might not always look like a magazine spread. Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Meta (formerly Facebook), spoke openly about the challenges of juggling motherhood and a demanding career. She didn't shy away from admitting she doesn't have it all perfectly figured out, but that shouldn't stop women from pursuing their goals.
For others, it might mean accepting that not everyone can become a CEO or drive the latest car, and perhaps that a smaller car and smaller title will still give you the life you seek. Still, for others, it might mean not pursuing the corner office as you’re not really interested in it – your interests might be far off. The key lies in self-acceptance. Instead of chasing an unrealistic ideal, celebrate your unique strengths. Are you a brilliant strategist with a knack for organization? Maybe you're a natural connector who thrives on building relationships. Focus on what makes you you and how those skills translate into your everyday life and work.
Self-acceptance is the first step towards self-improvement. It involves recognizing and embracing all aspects of yourself, including your strengths and weaknesses, successes and failures. When you accept yourself as you are, you create a solid foundation upon which you can build. This acceptance isn’t about complacency but about understanding and appreciating your current state while remaining open to growth and change.
Benefits of embracing your true self
Embracing your true self can benefit you in a multitude of ways, impacting your mental well-being, relationships, and even your success! Here's a breakdown of some key advantages:
- Boosted Confidence and Self-Esteem: When you accept and appreciate who you are, flaws and all, you develop a strong sense of self-worth. This translates into greater confidence in your abilities and decisions, both personally and professionally.
- Improved Mental Health: Constant pressure to conform to an ideal can lead to anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy. Self-acceptance allows you to let go of that pressure, reducing stress and promoting inner peace.
- Stronger, More Authentic Relationships: People crave genuine connections. By being true to yourself, you attract people who appreciate you for who you are, fostering deeper and more meaningful relationships.
- Greater Personal Fulfillment: Living authentically allows you to pursue your passions and interests without reservation. This leads to a more fulfilling life where you feel aligned with your values and purpose.
- Enhanced Creativity and Problem-Solving: When you're not afraid to express yourself freely, you open yourself up to new ideas and perspectives. This can lead to greater creativity and innovative solutions to problems.
Accepting yourself as you are is not about settling for less; it’s about recognizing your worth and building from a place of authenticity. By embracing self-acceptance, you create a strong foundation for practical and sustainable self-improvement. Remember, the journey towards growth is ongoing, and each step you take, no matter how small, brings you closer to becoming the best version of yourself. So, start today by accepting yourself, and watch how your life transforms in meaningful and fulfilling ways.
