Self-acceptance and self-appreciation are crucial components of a healthy and fulfilling life. Yet, many of us struggle with accepting and appreciating ourselves due to various reasons, such as societal pressure, past experiences, or negative self-talk. However, it's possible and learning to embrace your true self can lead to increased confidence, self-esteem, and overall well-being. Let's explore five practical ways for women to learn to accept and appreciate themselves.
- Practice Self-Compassion:
Self-compassion is a crucial first step in the process and it involves treating yourself with the same kindness, concern, and support you would offer a friend. I mean if you spoke to anyone the way you speak to yourself, I am 10000% sure you would have no friends. If you wouldn't say it on National TV, don't say it to yourself! Your trillions of cells are listening. It's true - read up on epigenetics and I promise you that you will mind your thoughts after you understand the impact they have on your health.
When you're feeling down or struggling with negative self-talk, try to pause and take a deep breath. Acknowledge your feelings without judgment and remind yourself that it's okay to feel this way. You don't need to be "happy" all the time. No, you will NOT manifest the opposite by working through your feelings. Quite the opposite actually. When you FEEL them you can move through them. It's when we don't, that they get stuck in the body. Sad? Cry! Watch a sad movie, curl up on the couch like a sushi roll and just allow whatever is there to come up and out!
2. Set Boundaries:
Setting boundaries is an act of self-care and self-respect. Learning to set healthy boundaries is an essential part of self-acceptance and self-appreciation. Many women struggle with setting boundaries because they fear it will upset others or be seen as selfish. However, setting healthy boundaries is crucial for protecting your well-being and establishing healthy relationships. Take some time to reflect on your boundaries and what you're comfortable with. Communicate your boundaries clearly and assertively, and don't be afraid to say no when necessary. No is actually a GOOD word, whenever you are saying no to someone else, you're actually saying YES to yourself.
3. Embrace Your Flaws
We all have flaws, but it's how we choose to view them that makes all the difference. Instead of trying to hide or fix our flaws, trying embracing them. It's part of who you are. Our flaws make us unique and interesting, and they can even be our greatest strengths. For example, if you are someone who is highly emotional, you could see this as a weakness, or you could embrace it as a sign of your empathy and compassion. When we accept our flaws, we can begin to see ourselves as whole and complete, rather than constantly striving for perfection, which is the lowest standard there is btw. ( I know, that was like a cosmic 2x4 to my head as well when my mentor Tony Robbins broke that news to me.)
4. Challenge Negative Self-Talk
We all have that critical voice in our head that tells us we are not good enough. But it's just that, a voice and my guess is that if you really listen closely, it's not even YOUR VOICE. It might be a friend, a well meaning parent, an ex. It's time to challenge that voice and replace it with a more positive and empowering one. When you notice yourself engaging in negative self-talk, try to reframe those thoughts in a more positive light. For example, if you find yourself thinking, "I'm so stupid," try replacing it with, "I made a mistake, but that doesn't make me stupid. I am capable and competent." "Mistakes me I am growing!" When we challenge negative self-talk, we begin to build a more positive and loving relationship with ourselves.
5. Focus on Self-Care
Self-care is an essential part of self-acceptance and appreciation. When we take care of ourselves, we are sending a message to ourselves that we are valuable and deserving of love and care. This can be as simple as taking a relaxing bath, going for a walk in nature, or spending time with friends who make us feel good about ourselves. When we prioritize self-care, we are showing ourselves that we matter, and this can help to boost our self-esteem and confidence.
Learning to accept and appreciate ourselves as women is an ongoing process that requires patience and self-reflection. It's important to recognize that we all have flaws, make mistakes, and face challenges, but that doesn't diminish our worth as individuals. By embracing our imperfections, practicing self-compassion, setting realistic goals, surrounding ourselves with positive people, and practicing gratitude, we can cultivate a sense of self-love and appreciation that can have a significant impact on our mental health and overall well-being.
Remember, you are worthy and deserving of love and respect, just as you are. Embrace your uniqueness, celebrate your strengths, and be gentle with yourself on your journey towards self-acceptance. By learning to love and appreciate ourselves, we can inspire and empower other women to do the same.
All my love,
Amanda - Chief Worthiness Officer - Worthy Wands
