Four Ways to Find Self-Acceptance

Four Ways to Find Self-Acceptance


Everyone finds him or herself in a slump sometimes; when they are not feeling the best about themselves. However, self-love can be cultivated by following these four tips.

1.    Know the world needs you. Someone at some point will rely on your distinct abilities and skills. “When people need you, you think, ‘Wow, I’m worthwhile just as I am,’” says Pamela Everett Thompson, a psychologist and life coach based in Atlanta. Whether it’s identifying new career options or volunteering, just knowing where and how you can positively impact others will jumpstart your feelings of self-worth.

2.    Acknowledge your shortcomings. While it’s important to focus on your strengths and what you are grateful for, be real about the things that don’t make you happy. It’s okay to admit that there’s something you want to change. Pretending everything is great can do more harm than good, says Thompson. She adds, “You use so much energy when you try to hide problems from yourself.”

3.    Don’t get stuck in acceptance. There’s a difference between accepting yourself despite your current situation and resigning yourself to the fact that things are destined to stay the way they are. “Tell yourself to accept the situation just for today, but do something today to change your life at the same time,” says Francine Ward, a California-based self-esteem coach and copyright trademark attorney.

4.    Be willing to be uncomfortable. No one will feel good all the time. Regardless of what your goal is, “you don’t get from point A to point B overnight,” reminds Ward. But when we believe we don’t deserve happiness until we’ve achieved our goals, we’re practicing self-loathing. Self-love is about being okay with yourself before, during, and after you set out on your journey.


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