It’s been an interesting year so far. While not much as has happened to me on the outside, a lot has happened behind the scenes. Nothing life-threatening but more life-evaluating, if that makes sense.
One of things I’ve finally learned (or started to learn) is self-acceptance. I’ve always understood myself but I feel like this year, I’ve understood myself better than ever. I know who I am and who I am not. I know what I want and what I don’t want. I know where I want to be and where I don’t want to be.
I’ve also become more aware of my strengths and weaknesses. While I’m concentrating on my strengths, I also understand my weaknesses. I accept that I’m imperfect. And the more I accept my imperfections, the more comfortable I am with myself.
I like to be in control. And now that I accept my weaknesses; I can take control of them. They will not define who I am – they’re just a part of me. And I’m fine with that. Striving for perfection is pointless. At the end of the day, no one is perfect. Life isn’t perfect.
I’ve always had a fear of failure. I still have it. But I’m facing it anyway. I push myself every day. I show up. I find courage even though I’m secretly terrified inside. I take risks even if they’re only small. I’m learning that failure doesn’t mean that I’m worthless; it means that I’ve tried.
I’ve stopped asking myself ‘How am I doing compared to everyone else?’ because I’m focusing too much on myself to care about what other people are doing. Comparison is a thief of joy. It does nothing apart from remind us of our own inadequacies.
It makes us think we’re not special – that we’re not good-looking, successful, rich or popular enough. But the person you’re comparing yourself to could be thinking exactly the same about someone else. No one wins.
Instead, master the art of self-acceptance. Be the best person you can be. Put your energy into yourself. Look after yourself physically and mentally. Invest in yourself spiritually and financially. Love yourself unconditionally. Nobody is you and that is your power.