How to Accept Yourself

Too many of us have bought into negative self images. The major social problems in our society — drug addiction, alcoholism, crime, teenage gangs, divorce and most others — begin with a poor self image and low self esteem. Most criminals have low self esteem. All you need to do to confirm this is visit a prison and talk to the inmates. The first thing you will notice is that they continually look down at the floor when speaking to you. This is a dead giveaway of a low self image.

During one of my workshops, a woman remarked how she did not like going to events and meeting new people because, as she put it, “Then they will know how dumb I’m.” The truth of the matter is that she is a very intelligent person but has developed this negative self image and allowed it to limit her experience.

Louise Hay, the bestselling author, suggests we work with the affirmation, “I approve of myself.” I urge you to try this for yourself, especially if you have a low self image. If you want to get a quick read on your present level of self esteem, stand in front of a mirror and say aloud, “I approve of myself.” Don’t be surprised if it makes you uncomfortable, even scared. I have seen people burst into tears doing this exercise. However, if you continue to do this, over time, you will begin to experience changes in how you feel about yourself and in your life in general. Louise suggests you recite, write, sing these words 300–400 times a day!

Practice receiving a compliment with a simple “thank you” instead of brushing them off by saying “its no big deal.” You deserve compliments. You deserve love. You deserve happiness. Remember, God doesn’t make junk!

It’s useful to keep in mind that, while you will never be perfect, you can become a perfect you. Personally, I have always liked the concept that my life is a work of art in progress. Like an artist working on a painting, I can work on different areas of my life. I’m constantly changing, growing and evolving, refining a little at a time. Of course, it will never be fully completed. Life is about changing and growing.

By identifying the areas of your own life you want to change, you are on your way to building lifelong success. Later, we will develop definite plans for making changes, but for now, simply identify what it is you want to change.