Self-Acceptance

“The worst loneliness is to not be comfortable with yourself.” ― Mark Twain

In my previous post, I wrote about self-hate. This week I’m writing about the healthy, positive side of the coin. I’m writing about self-acceptance.  

The National Institute of Health defines self-acceptance as “an individual’s acceptance of all of his/her attributes, positive or negative.” Self-acceptance has been shown to decrease depression symptoms, seeking approval from others, a fear of failure, along with negative self-talk. On the positive side, self-acceptance increases positive emotions, a sense of freedom, self-worth, autonomy, and self-esteem.

The lack of self-acceptance isn’t always apparent in someone. Some individuals attempt to compensate for lack of self-acceptance through success. This compensation can help for a while. However, these same individuals will often collapse when they fail at something, which is inevitable, for we all can’t win all the time at everything.

Srini Pillay, MD, wrote in the Harvard Health Blog that there are three ways that someone can boost their self-acceptance. The three recommended steps are self-regulation, self-awareness, and self-transcendence. Self-regulation involves cognitive behavior changes such as changing how you speak to yourself and reframing negative situations into opportunities. Self-awareness is, as it sounds, becoming more aware of yourself and what impacts you. Finally, self-transcendent is getting involved in relationships other than just yourself. You are not an island.

What I’ve addressed here are just a few steps that can aid in self-acceptance. If you struggle with self-acceptance, you may need to seek professional assistance. There are licensed professionals who can help immensely. 

Blessed Be,
Frater Tenebris