My Best Self 101 Blog
Our bodies are a precious gift that we only get one of. With this knowledge, why is it so difficult to be satisfied with our bodies? Body satisfaction through weight loss is the motivation for many people when they begin an exercise routine. If we head to the gym daily simply to fit into our favorite jeans or be ready for the beach this summer, will we have the same positive effects of body appreciation and happiness?
Everyone feels like they are not enough at some point in their lives, and even shame has something to teach us—but we can move through our shame while maintaining our authenticity by being vulnerable with those people who have earned our confidence. If we were all a little more open about our weaknesses, they wouldn’t isolate us from others but rather help us feel more engaged and motivated to try again. Failure is human, but rising above failure is the essence of human flourishing.
Women are two times as likely to be depressed as men—not the most light-hearted way to begin this, but it’s true! Researchers have spent a long time trying to figure out what leads to this gender difference in mental health. One particular theory devised by Dana Crowley Jack in 1991 describes a phenomenon somewhat unique to the social expectations placed on women. It’s called the Silencing the Self Theory.
Self-love is characterized in much the same way as love for other people is. Learning to love myself has meant acknowledging that I am a unique human being with something positive to offer the world. I have flaws and acknowledge them, but I recognize that I am no more flawed than other people! When I make a mistake, I no longer relentlessly punish myself for it—even after those I’ve wronged have forgiven me. I appreciate the fact that I have the capability to see areas where I can improve, become better, and work toward growth! My mistakes are no longer indicative of inherent flaws that I will never shake off; they are indicative of the fact that I can grow.
