While being a perfectionist, especially in certain life aspects, can be beneficial, perfectionism can cause severe damage to a person’s self-esteem. Here are five tips to help you embrace your imperfections so you can boost your self-esteem and lead a meaningful and authentic life.
Be mindful of your environment
The people we interact with often can either raise or lower our self-esteem. It is essential that you foster relationships with positive individuals who can accept your perceived flaws and drive you to move forward. Seek connections with loved ones who make you feel great about yourself and encourage you to remove your filters.
Cut ties or limit your time with relatives and close friends who tend to highlight your shortcomings. If you don’t have positive individuals within your social circle, actively search for like-minded individuals on reputable and healthy digital platforms.
Avoid comparing
While comparing yourself with others is normal, unhealthy comparisons can cause depression and anxiety and significantly harm your self-esteem. Constantly looking at others’ strengths will only make you unappreciative of your own and cause you to be your biggest negative critic. Comparison can also trigger obsessive behavior and push you to hide your flaws instead of embracing them.
If you’re unable to break the habit of comparing, try to do it constructively and positively. Take on a healthier approach by changing your perspective. Make sure that your comparisons will make you more aware of what you should work on and inspire you to be the best version of yourself.
Shift your mindset
Your thoughts and words hold great power over your mental and emotional well-being, so adopting a healthy mindset is essential. Be mindful of what you say to yourself, especially during stressful times. Remove toxic thoughts and stop pinpointing your imperfections. Identify your strengths and find ways to convert your limitations into something valuable or unique. For instance, if you’re hard of hearing, consult with a trusted hearing center such as HearCanada, so they can efficiently provide you with the appropriate treatment or service.
Use social media wisely
While social media certainly has its merits, it can negatively highlight your insecurities and lower your self-esteem. The more time you spend on these social media platforms, the more socially pressured you’ll be to conform to society’s unrealistic standards. Use social media wisely and responsibly. Only follow accounts that foster confidence and camaraderie. Remove online friends who tend to make you feel bad about your imperfections and befriend individuals who can boost your self-esteem or keep it intact.
Accept compliments
Many people find it difficult to accept compliments, even when given by individuals close to them. Learn to accept compliments and start the habit of celebrating others. Even if you feel that the compliment giver has a hidden agenda, take the compliment as it is and refrain from overanalyzing. Positively celebrating the imperfections of others can teach you to embrace your own.
Constantly chasing perfection is not only inefficient but also unrealistic and pointless. Take note of these tips, and always look for ways to build your self-esteem.
