Before you stop reading because you think I’m going to whine and self-loathe… read on.
I am an introspective person. I am self-reflective almost to a fault. Some people would say that being self-reflective is a positive characteristic… that it’s tough to be evaluative of oneself. However, I think there is a serious detriment to being too self-reflective; where self-reflection takes over the individual and smothers their very existence. There isn’t a moment in my life when I’m not working to change some aspect or improve some area of my life.
Well, I quit. I formally give my resignation.
The fact of the matter is, I’m awesome. No, this isn’t arrogance, this is me deciding that I am awesome at being me. You… well, you are a failure at being me, but I know how to be me. At least I think I know how to be me. That’s why I need to quit trying. I need to stop trying to be a better mom. I need to stop trying to be healthier. I need to stop trying to be a better wife. I need to stop trying and I need to be. I need to be still and savour the solitude and peace that comes with accepting who I am.
I am thirty-seven-years-old and I haven’t taken time to enjoy who I am without trying to alter who I am. Why? Why can’t I be happy being me? Why can’t I rest in the fact that I am who I am… and accept that who I am is okay?
I spend so much time and energy on self-improvement strategies. I’m sure if I let go of those efforts, that I would have more time and energy to be me. I’m also pretty sure that in being me, the extra time and energy would allow me to be a healthier woman, a better mom and a better wife.
Have you ever noticed that that worst thing about housework, is the anticipation of doing housework? Usually, when submerged in the tasks, it’s not as bad as you expected it to be. Well, I liken my constant self-improvement to the dread of doing housework. I’m spending all my time primping my cleaning supplies and making a plan to tackle the chores but I never just get in there and do them.
So, I quit trying to be better and I’m going to start being me. I imagine at some point, self-improvement strategies will creep back in… as this is my nature, but hopefully by taking a break from constant change I can gain more confidence in being (and liking) me.
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I think you’re awesome too :)
My hat’s off to you!!! Trying to be something better than what you are is like never being happy or proud of what you’ve accomplished in your life. Authenticity (in my humble opinion), is more beautiful than self-improvement. We all have room for improvement but constantly trying to be better can cause you to lose perspective self identity. Be proud of who you are!!! :)
Good for you! You are all those things that you want to be. Trust in your intuition and enjoy!
Good for you!
I like that you open up and reflect upon your want for change and vulnerability. It is great to want to get better, however, not down yourself in the process. The spice of life is change and what better to change, than self. So, I encourage you to press on to change anything you want about yourself. Anything that you like about yourself, expound on it. Be happy. (smile)
It’s like we were separated at birth. The end.
Ok, not really the end. LOL!
You know, Sofia’s Ideas was birthed out of me coming to a similar place, but you’re right – it creeps back in, as it is also my nature. I do love who I am, but I also love to learn new things and to be challenged. Sometimes it feels good to just look back on all of the “improvements” I have made over the years, to give me some perspective when I am “trying” so hard that I’m making myself crazy.