The Journey of Self-Acceptance: Learning to Love Yourself

Swopnil Devkota

I want you to examine who you are. Appreciate what you see? It’s acceptable if the response is “no.” It takes time and work to develop self-acceptance. Focus on the qualities you enjoy in yourself rather than what you don’t like. No matter how tiny they may seem, take pride in your abilities and accomplishments. Step by step. Don’t rush, and don’t be harsh on yourself—guess what—someone else will take care of that for you. We are all surrounded by critics all over. No need to add yourself to that group for yourself.

We all need some time to accept who we are. Some of us might not like how we appear. Some of us might not agree with how we feel. Some of us might not appreciate how we act. We all make an effort to look around corners and identify the issues we have within ourselves. And if I ask you to take a look at your strengths, you go blank, you take time to think and list out those tiny small amateur details rather than looking at the bigger picture. I advise you to put an end to it because there is an entire society out there pointing that out! And guess what? If you begin to believe them, then boom! You are done for. Although it is not an easy process, self-acceptance is essential. We typically judge ourselves harshly for our flaws and imperfections since we are our own worst critics. However, the truth is that we are all flawed and imperfect. It’s okay that nobody is flawless. It’s critical to keep in mind that, despite everything, you are deserving of respect and affection.

Self-acceptance obviously entails more than just liking oneself. Accepting the aspects of yourself that you might not particularly like is another aspect of it. Perhaps you suffer with a poor habit or a certain personality trait. It’s critical to accept these flaws as a part of who you are while simultaneously recognizing them and working to improve them. Your shortcomings or errors do not define who you are. I advise loving yourself because of this. How can you expect someone else to love you if you don’t love yourself? Reassemble your components. Not to worry, each of us is damaged here. But there is where the beauty lies! We shimmer with our flaws. And fear not! Time heals everything gradually and incrementally. However, before time begins to show its magic, allow yourself to develop through the peaks and valleys. Give yourself some love. As you soar higher and lag behind, try not to despise yourself. Maintain your growth.

Learning to create limits is a crucial component of self-acceptance. This entails being aware of your own requirements and values and assertive in expressing them to others. Saying no to things that don’t serve you or go against your principles also entails being willing to disappoint people in the process. Keep in mind that you are not required to justify taking care of yourself to anyone.
And most importantly don’t dwell in the past. Don’t go through that road of guilt trip where you begin to fall in the pit hole of shame, sadness, faults, unanswered needs that got away. Because guess what? At that time, that was the best decision you made. Don’t we all judge the characters from horror movie? Why go to the exact place where they have clearly placed a danger sign? That is what guilt trip will be for you. A danger sign. Don’t become a laughing stock for yourself. Think, and then act only if it satisfies you.

Focusing on the qualities you appreciate in yourself is one method to cultivate self-acceptance. You might be a fantastic cook or have a terrific sense of humor. You can be a devoted friend or a diligent worker. Whatever it may be, give yourself some time to recognize and celebrate your strengths.

Clearly, self-acceptance is a lifetime journey that calls for endurance, empathy, and bravery. We can learn to accept and appreciate ourselves exactly as we are by taking things one step at a time, concentrating on our strengths, nurturing ourselves, and respecting ourselves. Being kind to oneself creates a world of opportunities for development, fulfillment, and enjoyment. Take action today and never forget that you are deserving of acceptance and love for who you are.

-Swopnil Devkota
Psychosocial Counselor