Wondering how to be comfortable in your own skin? Let’s face it; nobody’s perfect. We live in a society where we are bombarded with ‘perfect body standards’ and there is no escape from the world of instant judgment that comes along with it.
But the truth is none of us can control what others may or may not think or say about us, and we all deserve to feel good in our own skin.
So if you’re feeling down and out or need some words of encouragement, take heart that you’re not alone.
I’ve been there a lot and years of therapy have provided me with a few helpful tips on how to love yourself (regardless of what anyone else thinks!)
The Journey to Self-Acceptance Starts Here: How to be Comfortable in Your Own Skin
It’s easy to put a ton of expectations on ourselves, and while that might feel productive at first… it’s actually one major way we limit our own joy.
We can get caught up in the overthinking trap which keeps us guarded and afraid to take risks or try new things – but if we step back, maybe have some fun with it?
1. Get rid of negative self-talk and learn to love yourself
Let’s get real, we’ve all had those moments where we talk down to ourselves. Maybe it’s after a bad day at work, or when we look in the mirror and feel like we just don’t measure up because we don’t ‘think’ we look as good as we used to.
But here’s the thing, negative self-talk is a toxic cycle that only leads to more negativity. So, let’s kick that habit to the curb, shall we? Instead of focusing on what you don’t like about yourself, shift your mindset to what you do love.
Research confirms negative thinking can lead to depression, anxiety, chronic worry, and the list goes on. All human beings, even those born with a positive outlook on life, struggle with negative thinking because our brains are built to notice threats and protect our survival.
And hey, if all else fails, remember this: if you talked to your friends the way you talk to yourself, you probably wouldn’t have any friends left. (Let that sink in for a second!)
2. Don’t be afraid to show off your unique style – it’s what makes you, YOU!
Let me tell you a little secret – there is nobody in this world quite like you. A beautiful, unique, and one-of-a-kind human being that has something special to offer the world that nobody else can.
Don’t be afraid to show the world what makes you, you! Whether it’s your quirky sense of humor or your love for glittery socks, let your authentic self shine. God has given us all unique gifts that we can (and should!) share with this world.
You never know who you could inspire or how you might change someone’s day just by being true to yourself.
And remember – you are pretty darn awesome JUST the way you are 🙂
3. Show kindness to yourself by taking the time for self-care
Let’s face it, we all have crazy busy lives. Between work, family, friends, and binge-watching our favorite TV shows, it can be tough to find time for ourselves. (Btw, have ya’ll watched Night Agent on Netflix yet? It’s sooooo good!)
But anyway, I’m here to tell you that taking the time for self-care is super important! Showing yourself kindness can take many forms: maybe it’s a bubble bath, a walk in the park, or a movie night binge sans guilt.
Whatever it is, make it a priority! No one else is going to stop you mid-email to suggest you take a quick meditation break, so it’s up to you to make sure you’re treating yourself with care.
As a matter of fact, studies have found that being kind to oneself or others, even strangers, can boost happiness. So, go ahead and indulge in some “me time” – you deserve it!
Trust me, you’ll feel refreshed, recharged, and ready to tackle whatever comes your way 🙂
4. Celebrate successes and don’t dwell on failures – look for the lessons instead
We’ve all been there – you work super hard on a project and it doesn’t quite pan out. Maybe the client hated the design, you bonked at the race you trained months for, or your boss thought your marketing strategy was just plain crappy. (Ok, those are all my personal examples, but you get the idea!)
It’s easy to look at the outcome and feel defeated, like all your hard work was for nothing.
But here’s a little secret: dwelling on failures doesn’t get you anywhere.
We need to celebrate the successes, no matter how small, and look for the lessons in the failures.
Research confirms celebrating small wins stimulates the release of dopamine in the brain, which reinforces the learning experience and strengthens our sense of connection to others.
Didn’t get the outcome you wanted? That’s okay – use it as a learning opportunity to improve for next time. After all, there’s nothing more important than growth and progress. Am I right?
Btw, make it a point to surround yourself with people who bring out the best in you
The Wrap – How to be happy in your own skin
I’ve spent a lot of my life wishing I could relax, not be so anxious, and stop worrying so much. (It certainly would be better for my health!)
But constantly telling myself to be more chill isn’t actually a good thing
It’s EVEN more pressure! And that pressure is what will suck the life out of you.
Don’t get me wrong, I don’t write this article thinking I have it all figured out – I’m simply sharing some things that have helped me on the bumpy road of self-love.
XO,
Jules
