The Power of Self-Approval: A Journey Towards Embracing Your Imperfections

A Wise Reminder on the Power of Self-Approval

"Remember you have been criticising yourself for years and it hasn't worked. Try approving of yourself and see what happens." These enlightening words by Louise L. Hay ring like a wake-up call. For years, many of us have been our own harshest critics, setting the bar so high that it becomes almost impossible to reach. What's the cost? A skewed perception of self-worth and an internal monologue that's more harmful than helpful.

But what if we flipped the script? What if we choose to approve of ourselves, embrace our imperfections, and treat ourselves with the same love and compassion that we offer others? In this blog, we explore the path toward self-approval and why it's essential for a fulfilling life.

Brene Brown: Living Wholeheartedly

Brene Brown is another beacon of wisdom on this topic. She advocates for Living Wholeheartedly and delves deep into the barriers that prevent us from embracing our true selves. According to Brown, shame is one of the primary factors that block us from self-acceptance.

She identifies three gifts of imperfection—courage, compassion, and connection—that emerge when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable. So how can you find your gifts and embrace them? The first step is to ease into vulnerability and face your inner fears and doubts.

Must-Watch: Murphy's Sketches

If you're looking for a more visual way to inspire self-love, Kerri at Murphy's Sketches offers just that. Her unique, carefree artwork serves as a vivid reminder to accept the messiness and busyness of life.

Her art promotes the idea that we should aim to live under a rainbow of possibilities instead of being stifled by the grey clouds of perfectionism.

Lowering The Bar: Embracing Chaos and Imperfection

The constant chase for perfection can make life feel like a never-ending struggle. By lowering our expectations slightly, we can enjoy the chaotic, messy beauty that life has to offer.

This doesn't mean giving up on goals or settling for less; it simply means recognising that perfection is not the ultimate measure of success or self-worth.

Action Tip of the Week: Challenge Your Negative Self-Talk

Here's a practical tip for challenging your inner critic: Think back to a time when a friend was being too hard on themselves.

Recall the compassionate words you offered them and the empathy you felt. Now, the next time you catch yourself engaging in negative self-talk, counteract those thoughts with a voice of kindness and understanding—just as you would for a friend.

The Transformative Power of Self-Approval

The journey toward self-approval is not an easy one, but it's certainly worth it. Let's replace our critical internal monologues with voices of compassion and acceptance. Let's embrace our flaws as part of what makes us uniquely us. After all, you are imperfectly perfect, and that's something worth celebrating.

Remember, years of criticism haven't gotten you far. Maybe it's time to try self-approval and see how far it can take you.

And if you're looking for a book that perfectly encapsulates this philosophy, consider picking up a copy of "The Gifts of Imperfection" or watching inspiring content like Murphy's Sketches that serve as a daily reminder to embrace your imperfectly perfect self.

So go ahead, approve of yourself. The results may surprise you.