Self-Acceptance Leads to

Happiness Finding acceptance is a natural desire of most people. When we are young, it is important to us to be accepted by a group and to be seen as "cool" by our peers. To do this, we will often adopt the views and interests of the group rather than develop our own. Over time, however, we have the opportunity to learn to accept ourselves. People who have done this are confident in their true abilities; they do not feel the need to create a facade to impress other people. They are concerned with whether their actions produce worthwhile results rather than with how they are seen by others. Less secure people are quite different. Instead of finding security in themselves, they look for other people to provide it. This kind of person constantly agrees with everything others suggest, for fear of having their own ideas rejected.

Arrogant or defensive people are also usually insecure; in an attempt to hide their insecurities, they belittle or blame others. Secure people do not give up when faced with a difficult situation; they say "I can" rather than "I can't." Knowing that each day is an opportunity to use their talents to acquire good health, good friendships, and great happiness, they always put their best foot forward. Contented people do not judge others, nor do they judge themselves. They can appreciate the differences between themselves and other people. Recognizing the details that we cannot change about ourselves is also a sign of personal growth. We cannot change our height, so why waste energy complaining about being short? Our energy would be better spent on more constructive projects. Instead of dwelling on personal characteristics we are not satisfied with, we ought to focus more on what we are good at. Such expressions as "Love thyself" and "to thine own self be true" are about self-acceptance and confidence, as well as honesty and morality. We should consider them to be good advice, and treat them as signposts showing the way to happiness within.