Self Acceptance is being happy and content with our imperfections and being able to look at our own strengths, and see our true value.

This is so important. It’s actually one of the keys to success, because without this ability, you will be unmotivated, and won’t believe in yourself. But as most things, its easier said than done.

Accepting ourselves for who we are can be difficult as we often compare ourselves to others, sometimes without even being aware that we are doing it.

Comparing ourselves to others can have a negative affect on our self esteem, confidence and overall feelings of unhappiness. As a result we can forget our strengths, achievements and quite often it can cause us to have a negative body image.

Social media is notoriously known for causing people to compare themselves and when you compare yourself to others, you are comparing yourself to the perception of what you think the person is. Many people are presenting only their ideal selves online. Therefore, you are comparing yourself to an ideal figure, not a true representation.

Therefore, it is important that we become aware of when we compare ourselves to others and change these thoughts to positive affirmations- easier said than done I know, this can take practice but what better time to start than now!

It’s useful to remember that the flaws we often see in ourselves are not what others would see when they look at us. Sometimes, you can’t see yourself clearly until you have seen yourself through the eyes of someone else.

Be Aware; Most often we compare without realising we’re doing it. If you focus on these thoughts for a few days, it gets much easier with practice, and soon it’ll be hard not to notice.

Focus on your strengths; Instead of looking at your weaknesses, ask yourself what your strengths are. Celebrate them! Be proud of them.

Take care of yourself; Ever heard the saying you can’t pour from an empty cup? When we focus only on other people, we lose time that we could otherwise invest in ourselves.

Be OK with imperfection; Be perfectly imperfect. No one is you- and that is your power!

And finally, remember…

To me, you are perfect.