Tuesday, 23 February 2010

Accepting Imperfection

I bought this book - The Language of Letting Go by Melody Beattie and reading the entry for 25 February it says:

" "Why do I always do this to myself?" asked a women who wanted to lose weight. "I went to my support group feeling so guilty and ashamed because I ate half a cookie that wasn't on the diet. I found out that everyone cheats a little, and some people cheat a lot. I felt so ashamed before I come to the group, as though I were the only one not doing my diet perfectly. Now I know that I'm dieting as well as most, and better than some."

Why do we do this to ourselves? I'm not talking strictly about dieting; I'm talking about life. Why do we punish ourselves by thinking that we're inferior while believing that others are perfect - whether in relationships, recovery or a specific task?

Whether we are judging ourselves or others, it's two sides of the same coin: perfection. Neither expectation is valid. 

It is far more accurate and beneficial to tell ourselves that who we are is okay and we are doing is good enough. That doesn't mean we won't make mistakes that need correcting; doesn't mean we won't get off track from time to time; doesn't mean we can't improve. It means with all our mistakes and wandering, we're basically on course. Encouraging and approving of ourselves is how we help ourselves stay on track.

Today I will love and encourage myself. I will tell myself that what I'm doing is good enough, and I'll let myself enjoy that feeling. "


Key Lessons for this Adventure:
1. It's ok that sometimes you slip from your food plan - just pick it up again and be proud of yourself for choosing to stay on track
2. Don't compare yourself to others of the results they are making versus your's. You can use other adventurers as sources of inspiration but never allow yourself to feel less than anyone. We are all different and responding to our individual food plans differently.
3. Surround yourself with people who believe in you more than you believe in yourself. They will give you the encouragement you need and help you boost your spirits to keep on going!
4. Accept what IS and accept and appreciate yourself for being the great being of light that you are. At the end of the day, it's up to you to make it happen. Your presence makes a difference to people's lives and you will be an inspiration to others!
5. You will reap the rewards... just be patient!

No comments:

Post a Comment