In today’s society, remaining true to yourself in the face of others’ expectations can be difficult, particularly if you are a person who “marches to the beat of your own drum.” Often, you may be apprehensive or intimidated when trying to express your thoughts, desires and personality to those who may be critical in return.
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The good news is that when you make the choice to forge your own path and embrace yourself for who you are, you can realize the possibility of living a fulfilling, authentic and enlightened life. Integrate these 11 strategies into your daily interactions, and you will be well on your way to finding true self-acceptance within the confines of modern life.
1. Focus On Your Positive Qualities
Loving and appreciating your best qualities is essential to the process of embracing your individuality. Make a mental or written list of the traits that you are most proud to possess, and refer to the list whenever negativity threatens to creep into your life.
2. Reflect On The Nature Of Your Self-Doubts
When you do find yourself doubting your ability to express your authentic nature around others, try to figure out the causes behind these feelings. Did you lose confidence due to someone else’s actions? Are you feeling insecure because of long-ago past circumstances? If needed, seek guidance to get to the heart of these issues.
3. Engage In Meditation And Yoga Practices
Meditation and yoga, in addition to being relaxing, are practices that can greatly help you to stay grounded and connected to the core of your person. Spend some time each day pursuing one or both of these activities in an effort to remain mindful, present and aware of your potential.
4. Seek Out Kindred Spirits
Though society may seem to be crowded with people who seem disconnected and distracted, know that you are not the only “rare bird” who seeks to embrace your true being. Join classes, discussion groups and activities where these kindred spirits may be found; being around like-minded individuals can only enhance your efforts.
5. Seize The Present Day
If you are a procrastinator by nature, then the impulse to put off your journey of self-expression until some point in the future may seem tempting. Instead, challenge yourself to start living authentically in the present. You will be grateful in the end that you did not waste time finding “you.”
6. Never Stop Trying
Missteps are part of every journey, so do not get discouraged if you have made a decision or performed an action that conforms to society’s ideals rather than your own principles. Keep trying to embrace and celebrate your uniqueness; the process will become more and more organic with time.
7. Don’t Take Judgment To Heart
As well as in the past, many people living in modern society can be judgmental concerning the manner in which others express themselves. Though negative judgments are hurtful and discouraging, strive to let them roll off your back. Exude confidence in the face of criticism.
8. Trust Your Instincts
Outside pressure from society is a given at one time or another, but do not be afraid to follow your instincts in situations where you feel than an alternative path is the better option. Listen to what your inner voice tells you, and embrace your decision fully.
9. Be An Example Of Compassion And Kindness
If the freedom to express yourself is something that you value highly, then it stands to reason that you should also accept others for the individual traits that they bring to the table. Be kind, compassionate and graceful so that people are encouraged to reciprocate.
10. Accept What You Cannot Change
The process of embracing the true you sometimes involves letting go of situations that are impossible for you to control or change. Do not waste energy dwelling on circumstances that cannot go your way; rather, turn your focus to those that are in your grasp.
11. Stay The Course
Set future goals as you journey toward expressing yourself freely; these will serve as incentive to stay the course when adversity strikes. Whether embracing the true you involves starting a new career, moving to another location or expanding your social circle, keep working toward your ideal life.
