Self-acceptance
Self-acceptance is recognizing oneself with real characteristics, history, limitations and resources without constantly rejecting oneself.
Definition
Self-acceptance does not mean believing that you have to leave everything in yourself unchanged. It means the end of the war with the very fact of being yourself. Thanks to it, development can be based on responsibility and curiosity, and not on shame, contempt or constant comparison with the ideal.
Key ideas
- Realistic self-image
- Less self-rejection
- Development without contempt
Practice and life
Write down three things about you that are difficult to accept and one responsible way of working with each of them. Separate acceptance of fact from lack of change.
Common misconceptions
It is a mistake to confuse self-acceptance with self-indulgence. It is also a mistake to make acceptance conditional on a perfect result.
> Self-acceptance does not end development, but gives it a fair starting point.
> — Guru Element
Questions for self-reflection
- What about me needs to be acknowledged before I can begin to change it?
- Is my growth a result of concern or contempt?
- How can I be honest and kind to myself at the same time?