E9: I Identify as Myself: Learning Self-Acceptance
How to Stop Editing Yourself and Start Showing Up Authentically
If you’ve ever felt like you have to shrink, soften, or modify parts of yourself just to be accepted, you’re not alone. Whether it’s in relationships, at work, or online, many of us perform subtle shape-shifting to fit others’ comfort zones. But over time, that can leave us feeling disconnected — not just from others, but from ourselves.
In this episode, we talk about the journey to self-acceptance: learning how to identify not as a role, label, or expectation, but simply as yourself.
When you truly know and accept who you are:
You’re the same person no matter who you’re with.
Your values, dreams, and priorities remain constant.
You stop performing and start living authentically.
But let’s be honest — showing up fully as yourself can feel risky, especially in a culture that pressures us to conform.
How to Start Practicing Self-Acceptance
Notice When You Edit Yourself:
Throughout the day, ask: Am I shrinking or changing myself right now to make someone else more comfortable? Awareness is the first step.Define Your Core Values:
Write down 3-5 values that are essential to who you are. Let these guide your decisions and behavior, no matter the setting.Get Curious About Your Triggers:
When you feel the urge to hide or reframe yourself, ask: What am I afraid of? Whose judgment am I worried about?Take Small Authentic Risks:
Practice sharing your honest opinions, passions, or quirks in low-stakes situations. It builds the confidence to show up fully over time.
Try This at Home: The “Who Am I?” Reflection
Take 10 minutes to journal on this question:
Who am I when no one is watching?
Write whatever comes to mind without editing. Then ask yourself - how often do I let this version of me be seen?
The takeaway:
You don’t need to fit into anyone else’s mold. Identifying as yourself is the bravest, most freeing thing you can do — and it starts with knowing who that is.
Books Mentioned in This Episode
What You Think of Me is None of My Business by Terry Cole-Whittaker