I think one of – if not the biggest – factor in reaching real fulfillment is feeling completely at home in your own skin. It sounds simple enough – but what does being comfortable in your own skin look like? It’s confidence, of course, and a strong feeling of self-awareness. But what are the other factors that go into reaching that level of contentment – and how do you get there?
Feeling Physically Comfortable in Your Own Skin
This doesn’t just mean being comfortable with your physical appearance, though that’s certainly part of it. This means having a strong connection to your physical body – being completely aware of what your body is feeling at any given time. It’s amazing how when we make time to recognize physical sensations and feelings, we’re able to achieve a new level of confidence in what they mean.
Being Comfortable Saying “No” When You Know You Need To
Why is saying “no” so hard?! Even when we take the steps to be tuned into our intuition and our higher self – and we know beyond a doubt that a certain decision or situation isn’t right for us – I think we still struggle with the external feelings of guilt associated with the word “no.” We worry about letting others down. We worry about missing out (even when we know we’re really not.)
Part of being completely comfortable in your own skin is being able to say no to things that you know won’t serve you – without feeling bad about it. It takes self-connection and raw honesty, but when you can reach that level of trust in yourself, the level of contentment you’ll experience is unparalleled.
You’ll Be Confident in Setting Healthy Boundaries
Boundaries are healthy in every relationship we have – romantic partnerships, friendships, work interactions, and relationships with our family members. It’s our choice what boundaries we want to create and maintain in each of our relationships. Boundaries mean that while you love and appreciate your relationships with others, there are certain parameters you need to set to honor yourself.
When we set healthy boundaries, we avoid becoming resentful in our relationships or them becoming one-sided. This is a huge part of feeling completely comfortable and content in the life you’re living.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
When it comes to our professional lives – this can be a big one. Imposter Syndrome is very real, and can be the source of debilitating anxiety and fear. This syndrome refers to constantly feeling that you are an “imposter” in your professional life, or that any success you achieve is a result of luck or good fortune and not your skillset or capabilities. The anxiety comes from a constant fear that you will be “found out” or “exposed” for your perceived lack of authentic ability.
But it’s called a syndrome for a reason. It is born from a lack of trust and confidence in yourself, and, at times, a struggle with self-awareness.
Forming a strong connection with your inner self – and your inner wisdom – -quiets imposter syndrome, because it allows you to be present and your most authentic self in all areas in your life. When you have a deep connection to yourself, you recognize those feelings of fear and anxiety as emotions influenced by external factors, and are not a reflection of your deeper feelings.
When we can recognize that those emotions are not our authentic ones, it is easier to set them aside. Fear and anxiety can be some of the biggest roadblocks in our personal growth, but a deep and meaningful connection with our inner selves – with our intuition – can help us overcome them.