I won't forget an episode of the last season of American Idol when one of judge Jennifer Lopez's comments resonated with me. Reacting to a stellar performance, she said something to the effect of, "It's all about feeling comfortable in your own skin." She praised the contestant, and passed on a lesson to me that night as well.
Isn't it all about feeling comfortable in our own skin? Certainly as social beings we feel the desire to be a part multiple social networks whether they are through dinner parties, work meetings, brunches, picnics, book clubs, or any context really. The message to feel assured about ourselves, our personalities and our impact on others is a truly important one, and one that we might take time to reflect on so we can cultivate the feeling. How we feel about ourselves can amplify or limit our enjoyment in life and, more significantly, is a feeling that can contribute to great self-esteem if we value ourselves properly. Our impact on others can be shaped tremendously with a helpful dose of self-value and self-esteem, strengthening our ability to contribute meaningfully and effectively in society.
When I hear good advice, I like to share it to help others, and Ms. Lopez's words are a good example. I don't know if she came up with the advice herself, but at the time she spoke them it did catch my attention.
A related strong piece of wisdom is the advice that First Lady Michelle Obama gave at the United State of Women's Summit while being interviewed by Oprah. (View the interview @11:10.) She talked about self-value, and how the FLOTUS could not have done her job as First Lady as comfortably did she not have the self-value she's had for herself for decades. While self-esteem is a concept we may feel we don't have control over at times, self-value is not like that. We can influence our thoughts and perspective to shape a healthier self-value, which in turn can boost self-esteem. It is so important, especially in today's society, that we treat ourselves better than ever because most others do not simply have the time to do so. We ought to care for and believe in our best traits and understand that being human means we will have difficulties presented as well.
Loving yourself is as important as every other way we care for ourselves, like eating and sleeping. Being narcissistic is different, as achieving balance in self-value is important, just like balance in everything else in life. However, if you need to reflect on why you should love yourself, take some time and do the soul-searching. Keep at those things which make you feel the most self-confident. Those habits and hobbies will likely reveal your biggest strengths. Remember, we are all so small in the bigger scheme of society and the world's affairs, but within each one of us lies a universe of its own.
Here are three steps to follow if you want to develop greater self-value and, in turn, feel comfortable in your own skin:
1. Reflect on your traits to develop greater self-value.
What traits do you have that you love the most? How do you demonstrate these traits daily? Take a moment to talk to loved ones and friends if this is too challenging on your own. Write your thoughts down if you like.
2. Get out there and share your traits in social settings.
When you are an active member of your social networks, it can create a positive feeling, especially if you're able to show off your best traits. You might be super thoughtful, kind, loving, or particularly self-confident and loving. Getting out there so that others get a taste of your character and mindset while you feel confident and positive can help you feel great about yourself.
3. Be on the look out for great advice and continuous ways to improve yourself.
The journey to shaping our attitude and mindset will constantly shift based on life factors. Having the ability to adapt and be grateful in every circumstance will no doubt be a huge asset if you can. Love yourself, live gratefully, and dream big. Hopefully, with the ability to value your traits and personality, you can pretty much always, 'feel comfortable in your own skin,' and continue to shine through it all.
Source/Credit: hollywoodreporter.com
If you wish to contact the author, Ms. Najma Khorrami, you may email her at khorraminajma@icloud.com.