In the past few months, I have been doing some serious reconstructing of my psyche. I had to remove myself from toxic relationships and as hard as it was/is, it has done wonders for my mental health. Along with this, I have taken strides to improve my physical health (which for me is basically doing anything physical). As of this evening, I partook in my first group dance class and I genuinely enjoyed laughing at myself as I tried to keep up with the much more fit, talented and peppy instructor.
For the first time in a long time, I wasn't comparing myself to all the others ladies who had been there for weeks before me. I didn't compare my body to anyone else's in the room. I didn't stop when I couldn't follow the step. I just laughed and spun in a circle opposite of the entire class. Why am I telling you this? Why did I open myself up to criticism? Why am I so boldly admitting my poor job? Because I believe it is incredibly important to be honest with yourself. So, here is a list of some hard truths & encouragements:
1. You are not the most talented...yet: Give yourself some grace and remember that, no matter what you are learning, everyone starts out as the new person. This doesn't give you the right to quit...you are not a quitter. If anything, this truth gives you a reason to continue. Get yourself to a great place. Whether it is teaching it to someone else or just making it through an entire session, you are at a better place than where you started!
2. You are not the most beautiful: Truth is, you are not. I know that is a pretty bold statement in a society that preaches "beauty means perfection." Here is what you are -- you, my love, are the most beautiful version of yourself. Don't roll your eyes, shrug it off, or laugh -- own it, know it, accept it. You are the most beautiful version because there is not a single copy of you. How awesome, right? Being beautiful has no definition. Everyone has a different perception, so you will never be “perfect." Which means you'll never be society's standard of "beautiful," but frankly, who wants to be? Know your unique beauty and admit it to yourself.
3. No one cares what you wear, how you do your makeup or what you post on your Instagram: So wear, do, and post whatever the heck you want! You don't need to impress anyone -- impress 'yo-self!' I think one of the most awesome things a person can do is just blatantly admit who they are, what they like, and what they believe. Honest with others -- honest with yourself (it's healthier that way).
4. Everyone has problems, so stop acting like you're the only one: Coming to the realization that everyone has their own demons is a real game-changer. Everyone "knows" that there is always someone that is worse off, but seriously...there are. You need to find people to confide in and ask for prayer, love, and support -- posting it all over social media to get 'likes' is going to leave you empty. Little 'thumbs up' do not even compare to a hug and a "I'm here for you" from a friend. Be a friend/support group for someone -- and find some of your own.
5. Happiness doesn't just come over night: I wish I could tell you that one day you will wake up and feel great about yourself, your job, or where you are at in life, but unfortunately I cannot. What I can tell you though is that you can get there. Happiness is not things. Happiness is not a state of mind. You are going to have bad days, and that is OK. Happiness is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Happiness is allowing yourself to be honest and admit when you need help. In the pursuit of happiness you will stumble, but what will make the difference is the getting back up. You are going to have to work at it, but it is so worth it!
I want to use this as a platform to encourage you all. I hope what I have written keeps you interested in pursuing an even better version of your life. We all have an opportunity to better our frame of mind, health, and life. When you are honest with yourself, take care of yourself, and love yourself, you can be more honest, take better care, and love others even more intensely.
