To be honest, I used to really care what people thought of me, my actions and who I was.
Sure, I was mostly authentic to me, but you know how some people are more bold, or more soft spoken or they like certain types of music, or they matter-of-fact didn’t give a crap about certain things?
That wasn’t me, and well, I’d unwittingly conform to them. I guess I wanted the acceptance.
At the same time, I’d be impressed by how they so confidently knew themselves, and with or without realizing, moved through life with that certainty.
Some people are lucky to find that early, but I’m proud at 37 that I’m finally finding that.
I care less. Well, actually, I care insanely deeply, passionately and sometimes too much… but about what and who matter to me.
I’m still fairly indecisive with what music I like and the confidence in what earrings go with what, but that’s the little stuff.
You know those people in your life who love you exactly for you? You could have two of those people or you could have 20. It’s irrelevant. Those are the people you need in your life.
The ones you accept all of you.
The only other person you need to accept all of you? YOU.
We’re all a work in progress and yup, some days I feel really awesome about me. As I should. Because you know what? It’s OK, and actually amazing to love yourself, to think you’re super cool and someone worth investing in. That’s not at all being cocky or super into yourself… that’s loving yourself, and it’s the way it should be.
Like the expression goes, “don’t ever dull your sparkle,” (and sure, brag about it sometimes, too!).
Start making decisions for you, what makes you feel happy, and joyful and beautiful. Find what brings a smile to your face and your heart.
This could be big or small things.
For example, I want to do more public speaking — I believe I have a story, and an inspirational one at that, to share, and I’m no longer embarrassed to admit that. I’ve had a hell of a journey and I believe sharing it can positively impact and motivate other women.
And, on the totally other end of the spectrum and insanely random, I’ve wanted to get my ear pierced in my mid cartilage for ages. I think it looks super cute and kind of bad ass. So I did it. I knew Adam wouldn’t like it (and spoiler: he doesn’t) but this little piercing you see in the photo brings me such joy it’s kind of silly. She is badass! 😉
Be honest with yourself, who you want to be, what you want to do, where you want to go and how freaking fierce and awesome you are.
Live your dreams and your happiness and your truth.
Own you. Do you. Be you.
It’s about that time.
Join the Conversation
Sarah Barash
September 28, 2017 at 1:27 PMThis is exactly what I’m thinking at 37 as well! Thanks for articulating my thoughts so eloquently!!!
Alyson
October 5, 2017 at 10:13 PMThank you so much for taking the time to read, Sarah. 🙂
Shea
April 20, 2017 at 9:04 AMI love this!!!
Heidi
April 13, 2017 at 2:18 PMLove this Alyson! Its so true that it takes time to get to this point, but man is it liberating.
Heidi || Wishes & Reality
Alyson
April 16, 2017 at 9:14 PMSo liberating!
Kimberly
April 7, 2017 at 10:42 AMLOVE this post & couldn’t agree more! It pains me to think back on the years I wasted trying to be who everyone else thought I should be. There is so much freedom & joy that comes when you finally embrace your true self & are able to let go of what others think!
http://www.pennypincherfashion.com
Alyson
April 16, 2017 at 9:20 PMExactly! It’s such a lifetime journey I’d imagine but it’s freeing as we move closer to our honest selves. xo
Shira
April 7, 2017 at 9:46 AMl love this! You are totally right that we all need to learn some self acceptance.