Life is a journey, discovering and defining what makes you, you. Sometimes we can get wrapped up in defining ourselves through material possessions, our profession, family, friends or social expectations, but only YOU can define yourself.
Oscar Wilde said, “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.”
One thing in life that is constant is change. Inevitably, we as individuals change, whether it be a conscious decision or a slow development over time. Accepting yourself and making the changes you feel are important, not defined by others standards will help to free you so you can live the life of your dreams. Live in the present, learn for the past and be conscious all of the time.
Eckhart Tolle, bestselling author of A New Earth: Awakening Your Life’s Purpose, said “Give up defining yourself – to yourself or to others. You won’t die. You will come to life. And don’t be concerned with how others define you. When they define you, they are limiting themselves, so it’s their problem. Whenever you interact with people, don’t be there primarily as a function or a role, but as the field of conscious Presence. You can only lose something that you have, but you cannot lose something that you are.”
Here are 4 tips to help you along your journey to defining the true YOU.
Find yourself and define yourself on YOUR terms.
Take in introspective look into your life. What is the essence of who you are? What do you value and what is important to you? Reflect on your life and choices.
Avoid Fixating on the Past
One of the most common mistakes is defining yourself by a moment or period of time, after which point you spend the rest of your life trying to be that person from the past. The truth is however, each of us is continually growing and changing. Embracing this, forgiving past errors and learning from new experiences will make you stronger and wiser.
Stop Caring How People Perceive You
Being a people pleaser and changing yourself based off how others perceive you in the end will only harm your personal development and confidence. Eleanor Roosevelt said, “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” Instead of allowing negative perceptions to bring you down, be yourself and focus on building your talents and strengths.
Treat Yourself as You Would Treat Your Own Best Friend
The value we place on our relationships with family and friends should be the same value we place on the relationship we have with ourselves. Give yourself the same kind, thoughtful and respectful treatment that you would give to those close to you. Accept yourself just as you are and find the best version of yourself.
Remember, how you define yourself often defines the life you create.
Dream it. Live it. BE it!!
Keri
© 2012 Inspired Living, LLC
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Keri Murphy and the Inspired Living team is on a mission to empower people to use their unique talents in a way that allows them to Dream, Live and BE all that is possible through speaking, coaching, celebrity interviews and original on-line content. Get Inspired at inspiredliving.tv
