Self-acceptance is the conscious act of releasing self-judgement so that you can experience your whole self.

Belonging is innate human desire to be a part of something larger than us. Because this yearning is so primal, we often try to acquire it by fitting in and by seeking approval, which are not only hollow substitutes for belonging, but often barriers to it. Because true belonging only happens when we present our authentic, imperfect selves to the world, our sense of belonging can never be greater than our level of self-acceptance. - Brené Brown

Not everyday is going to be productive and happy. Some days are going to be tough and sometimes all we can do is lie down and sigh. but that’s okay! because we are doing our absolute best, even if our best is allowing us to cry, allowing us to sleep, allowing us to breathe.If we don’t take the time to invest in ourselves , then no one else will either. We and only ourself , are in charge of setting the foundations in which our self development builds upon.

Self-acceptance does not mean acceptance of our weaknesses, bad habits and negative tendencies іn the absence of any responsibility to continue to improve yourself. Self-acceptance is a reckoning with yourself. It’s an acknowledgement of your shortcomings, character, habits and tendencies. It’s about facing the truth and accepting reality.

Abraham Maslow suggested that our need to belong was a major source of human motivation. He thought that this was one of the 5 human needs in his hierarchy of needs, along with physiological needs, safety, self-esteem, and self-actualization.

Since, belongingness is an innate psychological need, we must know that it exists, and so the path to achieve this need shouldn’t be a barrier to our self-growth and self-acceptance. What I want to convey through this article is that it's alright to be under construction. To be figuring things out. To be searching for yourself. Often, this is what growth is; and if you stop yourself from growing just because it’s uncomfortable and you can’t fit in somewhere you don’t belong you’ll never be able to fully satisfy the need.

We need to free ourselves from self-punishment in order to be healed. When we release ourself from the negative thoughts that hold us back and accept where we are, we are setting ourselves on a truly fundamental path towards contentment, peace and happiness. Our self-acceptance sets the stage for growth motivated by curiosity, inspiration and self-care. That sounds a lot better than feeling motivated by pity self-rejection and shame.