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- Embracing our Authentic Selves
Hello! Welcome to another edition of the ABC of Mental Health—your companion in the journey to better mental health. This week’s theme is Embracing Our Authentic Selves, a reflection on being true to who we are. It’s about celebrating our uniqueness and letting go of societal pressures, on the occasion of World Mental Health Day today. We’re sending this your way today to help you feel a little lighter and a lot more you!
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One relevant recommendation:
Take a Self-Compassion Break
When we embrace our authentic selves, we need to also practise self-compassion. Here’s a quick and easy exercise:
Pause for a moment and place your hand over your heart.
Take a deep breath and say to yourself: "It's okay to be me."
Acknowledge that it’s natural to make mistakes and that embracing your imperfections is part of being authentic.
Try doing this whenever self-doubt creeps in. It’s a great reminder to be kind to yourself as you step into your true identity.
Two quotes on Being Authentic and Learning to Love the Real You:
Maya Angelou, American poet and civil rights activist, on the importance of self-honesty:
"Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it."
Brené Brown, research professor and expert on vulnerability, reminds us about the courage it takes to be ourselves:
"Authenticity is a collection of choices that we have to make every day. It’s about the choice to show up and be real. It is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are"
Three TherapyShorts from TST
Recognising What’s Yours: Often, we try to fit into moulds created by societal expectations, family pressures, or cultural norms. Embracing your authentic self starts with recognising what truly belongs to you. For example, if you enjoy a quiet night in instead of a busy social gathering, honour that! The more you tune into your preferences, the more connected you become with who you are.
Letting Go of "Should": How many times have you done something because you felt like you "should"? Letting go of the word "should" helps you move from living based on others’ expectations and social pressures, to making choices that align with your true desires. The next time you catch yourself saying “I should,” ask yourself: “Do I want to?” This small shift can bring you closer to living authentically.
Set Boundaries to Protect Your True Self: Sometimes, living authentically means setting boundaries with people who may not understand or support the real you. Start small—saying no to activities that drain your energy or values can go a long way in prioritising your well-being.
A QUESTION?
When are you most likely to embrace your true self? Share it with us :)
PS: Our most popular answer last week for the question what’s the biggest transition you’ve faced recently was… *(drumroll please)* - Personal growth or lifestyle change
Love and light,
The Social Therapist
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