The non-physical things I love about myself

It's so easy to get caught up in how we look, isn't it? Before therapy, my self-worth was often tangled up in outward appearances, and I found myself body-shaming both myself and others. That negative cycle made me truly dislike who I was. But my therapist challenged me to look deeper, to rediscover the 'me' beyond the mirror. This journey wasn't just about feeling better; it was about truly knowing myself, especially those amazing non-physical parts that make me unique. Through guided conversations, my therapist helped me dissect my negative self-talk. We'd talk about situations where I felt proud, not because of how I looked, but because of how I acted or what I contributed. It was like peeling back layers to reveal the core of my being. This process made me realize that things like my sense of humor, my kindness, or even my ability to stay calm in a crisis, were far more enduring and valuable than any fleeting physical attribute. It's a really personal journey, but I found that writing things down, almost like a gratitude journal for my inner self, really helped. For instance, I realized how much I value being a good listener. It's not something you see, but it makes my friendships so much richer. I always try to ensure I don't talk about myself when my friends are sharing their experiences, which strengthens our bonds. Or my knack for being creative – whether it's drawing, creating posts for Lemon8, making videos, or even just decorating my space. These are parts of me that bring immense joy, not just to myself, but to others. And honestly, being able to make people laugh? That's a superpower! It brings a lightness to life that physical attributes can't. I've also embraced my role as a good friend and yes, even a good cooker! I absolutely love to cook, and according to my taste and all my friends, I make very yummy things. These are all skills and traits that reflect who I am inside, and they contribute to my self-acceptance. If you're struggling like I did, consider this: What makes you feel genuinely fulfilled? What do people compliment you on that has nothing to do with your looks? Maybe you're incredibly resilient, a fantastic problem-solver, or you have a huge capacity for empathy. Think about your curiosity, your intellectual pursuits, or your ability to inspire others. What about your passion for learning, your patience, or your incredible organizational skills? These are your true strengths, your inner beauty. They are the foundations of genuine confidence and lasting happiness. Embracing these qualities has been foundational to my self-acceptance. It's a continuous journey, but shifting focus from the external to the internal has been the most liberating step. It allows you to truly love your whole self, just as the article mentions. So, take a moment today to list those incredible non-physical things you love about you!