Visualizing Self-Acceptance

For some of us, the idea of self-acceptance can feel like a foreign concept, especially if there have been years of self-criticism and judgement. Unfortunately, our society does not set us up to like and accept ourselves. From the moment we are born we are bombarded with people, stories, and images telling how how we should look, think and act. We quickly begin holding ourselves to standards before we even have a chance to know our true selves. 

This causes a lot of problems! Forcing ourselves to fit inside society’s box is a recipe for anxiety, depression and a range of other mental health issues. It also feeds loneliness and disconnection from others. Despite what you’ve been brainwashed to believe, people want to see the real you. 

When you get close to someone, is it because they were presenting themselves by society’s standards (e.g. thin, attractive, successful, etc.) or was it because you got a glimpse of the real person inside - allowing you to relax let your guard down as well?

Relationships thrive on realness. On authenticity. On openness and acceptance. When someone truly appears confident (by embracing who they are, not just around their surface level accomplishments) it’s like a magnet. They are easy to be around because it feels safer to be ourselves around them. 

If this concept is true, can’t the same logic be applied to yourself? Will others’ see and accept you on a more “real” level when you accept yourself for who you are, rather than pushing yourself to meet society’s standards?

With this vulnerable step you may detach from some people, but your connection with the ones that remain will only get deeper and more meaningful. You will realize that those other relationships were not serving you and you are better off without them. 

You have to start with you. Treat yourself kindly. Give yourself a break. Remember that society’s standards are impossible to meet and we lose ourselves trying to attain them. Let them go. You are enough. As you are. Right now. 

“You’re imperfect and you’re wired for struggle, but you are worthy of love and belonging.” - Brené Brown