To Thine Own Self, Be Kind!

As if life was not tough enough, we had to complicate it even more by being hard on ourselves. Today's journaling prompt asks me to introspect the ways in which people are generally harsh on themselves, and what kind of support can we offer to ourselves to take it easy.

Feeling like we are not doing/being enough: There must be very few people who feel contented and satisfied with what they are or with their work. Majority of the people battle self-criticism, always rebuking themselves for not trying enough, or for not being more. The most difficult person to satisfy or please is oneself. It is always toughest to silence our own mind's criticism!

None of us has it easy in life, and yet we are coping with the situations to the best of our abilities. Sometimes we choose an unconventional coping mechanism that might feel strange or unfamiliar to many, but works wonderfully for us. To each one, their own! I feel we judge ourselves much more than we judge others, and we do not forgive ourselves as quickly as we forgive others. 

One ritual might help to satiate the mind. At the end of the day, we can list out the things that we feel we did right. It need not have been a magnanimous gesture. Sometimes it could be something as simple as staying silent and walking away from an argument when everything inside you screamed that you were right and you should fight. Sometimes it could be as simple a gesture like not blowing our own trumpet and allowing someone else their moment to shine. It could be anything that made you feel good about yourself. By listing out all the things that you believe you did right, you can gain a fresh perspective about yourself. 

Not doing what we wish to do out of fear of displeasing others: Many of us lead half-hearted lives, burying our deepest desires and wishes with the purpose of not displeasing anyone. The truth is - you cannot please everyone. I have experienced that those people who are always their frank selves and live life according to their own terms, have more admirers. Because at a very basic level, people like those who are their true selves. By living half-hearted lives and being someone else, we are not doing a favour to anyone. I find it tragic that somehow we learnt to be more comfortable being someone we aren't, while the most natural and easiest thing to do would have been - to be ourselves.

The trick is to realize that you can be your own self and still not burn any bridges. Perhaps people will find it difficult to accept you initially. But keep being true to your self. Most importantly, do it without regrets, guilt or fear. Those who really care for you will accept you for what you are. Here again, journaling and introspection will work wonders. Thinking on what you would rather be doing now and what efforts it will require from you, preparing a list of habits/traits that you seem to have accumulated and feel that they do not define you anymore, having a clear picture of what you really wish to be - these are some points which will help you to be your truest self.

These are just a few points that came to my mind while writing on this prompt. Take it easy, people! There are enough complications in life without adding more from our end! Keep it simple, take it easy and lead a guilt-free and peaceful existence! Trust me, you deserve this.