You might want approval.
You might need role models.
But remember this, as Carl Jung once said, “Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.”
That has been so true in my own development. Before I could manage any growth or success, I had to tune into the truth of who I am, to discover my own heart and embrace it.
Before that, I was looking to others for approval or praise – and wincing at every criticism. I wanted you to like me before I even knew how to like myself.
Then I heard something absolutely brilliant that I want to share with you now: What someone else thinks about me is none of my business.
Isn’t that great? Maybe it’s just another way of saying, “To thine own self be true,” but there’s a reason why that has been repeated over the centuries, right?
Once all this clicked, it no longer mattered whether other people smiled approvingly at my aspirations, or supported my efforts, or graced me with a compliment.
I still like approval as much as anyone, of course. But I no longer need it. I no longer take it personally.
That’s because I know who I am. I take care of my body, mind and spirit according to my own values and beliefs. I’m doing the best that I can to live a healthy, valuable life.
I hope you can say the same, but if you’re not there yet, let’s talk about it. Personal acceptance is the key to the growth you deserve.
