The Beauty in Being Yourself

When was the last time you walked into a room, full of people, and felt completely comfortable? No second-guessing yourself, no worrying about other people’s thoughts, no hesitations in striking up a convo with a stranger. Just 100 percent satisfied with Y-O-U. Can you honestly remember the last time that happened?

Up until last weekend, that had NEVER happened to me. The idea of being comfortable in my own skin, in a room full of people, was something I accepted as just that — An idea. Not my reality.

I had a lingering, overbearing and constant urge to say the right thing, look perfect, and act like my life was completely put together.

What a waste of precious time!

We all have our struggles. We all have our insecurities. But our flaws make us who we are. No one has ALL of their shit together. They might put on a good show, and only expose the pretty parts, but they’re struggling, too. We all are! Life is tough.

But last weekend, for the first time in my whole entire life, I experienced what it was like to be okay in a room full of strangers. I wasn’t worried about what everyone else was thinking. I showed up, enjoyed myself, spoke my actual thoughts, and was able to listen to others without analyzing every little word they were saying.

I was okay with being myself. I was comfortable. I was 100 percent satisfied with me. And it was beautiful.

It’s taken me 27 years, and a whole lot of working on myself, but I can honestly say I’m proud of me. I’m proud of everything I’ve accomplished. And I’m proud of everything I’ve overcome. I wouldn’t change a single thing in my past…even the shitty things. Because the shitty things turned into blessings, and they made me who I am. They made me stronger, wiser, and a hell of a lot more fun!

I may have to wake up every morning and remind myself everything really is alright. I may have to say a few extra prayers before facing a crowd. And I may have to sit outside and take a breather to calm my nerves every now and then. But no one’s perfect, right? 😉

To those of you who have learned to be comfortable in your own skin, here’s to you!