We have all done things we are not proud of, and have had experiences we have never shared, and that we fully intend to take with us to our graves. In some instances, and in the eyes of others, these experiences are not necessarily bad or horrific: others have experienced worse. But to us, they cause a shame, anger, rage or other extreme negative emotion. And to the extent that we can, we have shoved these experiences down deep within us, in the hope of putting enough distance between those memories and ourselves.

However, and in avoiding these experiences, these parts of our story, aren’t we also denying who we truly are and all of the experiences that have shaped us?

Ultimately, it boils down to self-acceptance: a term that is thrown around, but when all is said and done, many of us don’t live it. Having said this, the journey to self-acceptance can be a challenge, as we may need to confront all parts of our life story – especially the unpleasant chapters – and come to terms with them. More importantly, and in the fullness of those unpleasant experiences, we may need to learn how to love ourselves, and live with ourselves nevertheless.

 

 

Best wishes, and have a great day!