Toxic self-acceptance corrodes life. Don’t be so pleased with yourself that it justifies mediocrity.
We approve of ourselves and disapprove of others. Lopsided approval makes us thrash through life like a flat tire. Addiction to self-love becomes self-deception.
Others aren’t your biggest challenge. Self-leadership is harder than leading others.
Symptoms of toxic self-acceptance:
- Neglecting self-development.
- Focusing on fixing people.
- Rejecting feedback.
- Justifying failure.
Turn toxic self-acceptance into healthy dissatisfaction.
What if Self-Love is Conceit – The Purpose of Self-Love
Escape toxic self-acceptance:
#1. Welcome dissatisfaction.
Step into things you don’t like about yourself. Don’t pretend everything about you is as it should be. The only person who doesn’t need growth is perfect already.
Growth means you aren’t there yet.
#2. Focus on yourself.
It’s easy to see flaws in others. It’s brave to see them in yourself. Jung said, “Everything that irritates us about others can lead us to an understanding of ourselves.”
When others irritate you lead yourself first. Ask…
- How might I do the same thing?
- What does my frustration reveal about me?
- How am I justifying myself by criticizing others?
- What blind spot in myself might I be missing?
The Secrets to Self-Leadership
#3. Participate “with”.
You are part of the team. Critics see themselves as one above, not one of. Leaders influence from within. Standing aloof limits leadership.
Resist complacency. Reject comfort. Accept yourself and pursue your best self.
How are you seeing self-acceptance become toxic?
6 Times ‘Self-Love’ Is Really Toxic Behavior In Disguise | HuffPost Life
—
Previously Published on leadershipfreak with Creative Commons License
***
Does dating ever feel challenging, awkward or frustrating?
Turn Your Dating Life into a WOW! with our new classes and live coaching.
Click here for more info or to buy with special launch pricing!
***
If you believe in the work we are doing here at The Good Men Project, please join us as a Premium Member today.
All Premium Members get to view The Good Men Project with NO ADS.
Need more info? A complete list of benefits is here.
On Substack? Connect with us there.
—
Photo credit: unsplash
