5 Ways To Stay Content In Who You Are
The saying goes, “If the shoe fits, wear it.”
But what if it doesn’t fit?!
What then?!!
I think about this question often because I love high, spiky heels. I love platform, stacked wedges. And I really love pointy-toed flats. I honestly love most of the current, sweet styles that every fashionista is wearing, dang!
But here’s my dilemma… No matter how hard I try or how much I love these styles, my feet just don’t fit in those types of shoes! I try, then I try again, then I try again, and the result is always the same.
They…still…don’t…fit!
I’ve learned that the love I have for these shoes doesn’t automatically mean the fit is right for me. And fighting to “make it work” always, and I emphasize always, leaves me frustrated.
It’s the same, more often than not, in our personal lives. We see the talents in someone else and think “I want that gift.” We assume ours is not enough. We start to believe that our gift is not as important as theirs.
So often the tendency is to “make” ourselves fit into a place where God has not designed us to be. And it leads to one thing…frustration.
So today I want to share 5 ways you can learn to stay content in who you are:
1. Embrace your uniqueness. There is only one you, and you can do “you” better than anyone else! You have been designed perfectly and completely by the creator of the universe to do amazing things! And you have special abilities that are specific just to you. Remind yourself often that your talents are a part of making a difference in the lives of those around you. There is no one that can do that better than you. Embrace your space boldly and confidently!
2. Stop comparing. I learned a long, long time ago that comparison has the power to do only two things. Comparison either elevates you above someone else, or comparison diminishes you below. And neither of these is good. When we compare to others we can get sidetracked and lose focus on our purpose and goals. Instead of wasting time comparing your life to someone else’s life, spend that time investing in the projects and dreams that have been placed within your heart. It will begin to change your perspective and refocus your thoughts.
3. Be happy for others. This is a close trailer to #2. You will find, when you stop comparing, an ability to be genuinely happy for others. You can appreciate their talents and accomplishments. You will find yourself truly interested in and caring about what is going on in their world. You may even decide to work and partner together to accomplish much more than you could’ve ever done alone! There is nothing quite like celebrating successes and achievements of others.
4. Don’t allow your thoughts to condemn you. “You is kind. You is smart. You is important.” This is one of my all-time favorite quotes from the movie, The Help. Although words from a movie, the power and importance of these words should resonate within you each and every day. You ARE gifted. You ARE talented. You ARE made for a purpose. Do not let negative thoughts consume or control you. What has really helped me is to find scripture verses, quotes and sayings that lift me up instead of tear me down. Research some of your own and remind yourself of these everyday.
5. Stay adaptable and open to new ideas. As far as I know, there is not a rule saying that you have to be in the same profession or field forever. We get older, relationships change, our children grow into adults—fluctuations that are all a part of life. I call it living a “fluid” life. Being ready to adapt and accept new challenges and opportunities. Taking on different responsibilities. Creating new goals and unique vision for your present and your future. Always be ready on your exciting journey to embrace the unexpected and be open to the unpredictable.
