10 Facts Every Woman Should Know
10 Ways To Connect To Your Authentic Self
(This Post was originally published on May 19th 2016 and updated on September 19th 2023)
It is a well-known fact that many women face the challenging experience of feeling lost and disconnected from their inner selves. They often express emotions of being controlled, dominated, or undervalued, thus seeking validation and self-worth externally.
Nevertheless, it is essential to acknowledge that relying solely on others or external factors for happiness can result in greater disappointment. True fulfillment can only be attained by turning inward and It is imperative for women to grasp this concept and make self-discovery and empowerment their top priority.
Image: Jennifer Enujiugha
External Validation
Extensive research on the study of external validation, its impact on mental health, and the results are quite eye-opening. It has been found that there is a notable link between external validation and decreased self-esteem, as well as increased feelings of isolation and loneliness. These negative consequences often stem from individuals struggling with their own insecurities and feelings of inadequacy. As a result, it is imperative to acknowledge the importance of these challenges and take proactive measures to overcome them. By addressing these issues head-on, we can foster personal growth and develop a more positive perspective on life.
According to data from mentalhealth.org.uk, approximately one in five women in the UK acknowledge having a mental illness. In the US, this percentage increases to 24.5% as stated by nimh.nih.gov. Researchers often attribute this increase in mental illness to modern societal norms that prioritize self-promotion, self-advancement, and external validation above all else. This cultural emphasis can come at the expense of other essential aspects of well-being.
It's not just women who struggle with developing a healthy view of themselves. In fact, many men struggle with the same issues – something that was only recently realized by researchers. It was found that there were now as many men as women suffering from low self-esteem and body image issues – making this a gender-neutral problem across much of the Western world.
It is clear that now, more than ever, it is crucial to develop a strong sense of self and offer support in navigating the complexities of this modern era.
The Healthy Viewpoint
The first step towards cultivating a healthier sense of self is to engage in an honest evaluation, acknowledging both the positive and negative aspects of who you are. This process may initially prove challenging due to societal pressures dictating what we should aspire to be. However, by undertaking this journey, you can develop a new mindset that embraces and finds solace in the uniqueness of who you are.
As you venture into this self-discovery exercise, pay close attention to your emotions, responses, and thoughts. By doing so, you will gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your experiences. Should negative thoughts arise, take a moment to reflect upon them. Perhaps writing them down can serve as a starting point for embracing those particular aspects of yourself.
Tools That Can Help
Prayer, meditation, yoga, journaling, therapy, and visualization are all excellent tools for personal growth. They can help us become more self-aware, boost our self-esteem, and strengthen our self-confidence. Do thorough research, and find the approach that resonates most with your own needs and preferences. In the meantime, try the following mindfulness exercise—a short but powerful technique designed to cultivate a deeper connection with yourself:
“Take a few moments to breathe deeply
and To centre yourself.
turn your attention inward and pay close attention to your thoughts, emotions, and reactions.
Listen to the thoughts going through your mind, without judgment.
Feel the feelings in your body associated with what you are thinking.
Soak it in with a curious, open mind.”
Image: Jennifer Enujiugha
All it takes is a few minutes each day to reconnect with yourself and truly discover who you are. As you embark on this journey, allow the words of Mary L Leonard to inspire and motivate you:
10 Facts Every Woman Should Know
Everyone has rolls when they bend over.
When someone tells you that you're beautiful, believe them. They aren't lying.
Sometimes we all wake up with breath that could kill a goat.
For every woman unhappy with her stretch marks is another woman who wishes she had them.
You should definitely have more confidence. And if you saw yourself the way others see you, you would.
Don't look for a man to save you. Be able to save yourself.
It's okay to not love every part of your body....but you should.
We all have that one friend who seems to have it all together. That woman with the seemingly perfect life. Well, you might be that woman to someone else.
You should be a priority. Not an option, a last resort, or a backup plan”.
You're a woman. That alone makes you pretty damn remarkable”.
~ Photo and words by Mary L. Leonard ~
We would love to know how you are incorporating self-reconnection practices into your life. Please share your experiences in the comments section below and join our community by subscribing to Olyinka Magazine for more inspiring content.
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