We are Art.
A Revolution of Self-Awareness, Self-Acceptance, and Self-Love
Written by- Darlene Steele
The everyday struggles of overcoming adversity in a world filled with prejudgement have worn on our self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-love. Have you ever wondered who designed the standards of right and wrong? Yes and no? Should you or shouldn’t you? Do you belong, or don’t you? Well, forget all of that! Who says that you have to live by someone else’s standard? We are Art. We are birthed and formed from the heartbeat of The Motherland, where the sand is laced with black magic. We are Art. Designed, shaped, and molded from the depths of oneself. Pulled from deep within the earth, roots entangled in melanin and sprinkled with drops of sun rays. We are Art. Here’s to spreading inspiration for others to create their own standards. Let’s dive into the emerging journey of your existence.
“Am I good enough? Yes, I am.” – Michelle Obama
The Art of Self-Awareness begins with a solid foundation; an amalgamation of love, compassion, patience, forgiveness, honesty, and self-trust. It is difficult to give to others if a lack of self-awareness alters your ability to love yourself. It may bring up traumas, denials, and triggers you have covered up or allowed to hold you back. Discovering the Art of Self-Awareness starts with being honest and open, understanding and loving yourself, and accepting who you are – the good and the bad. The journey will be a process of healing and acknowledgment.
“We will all, at some point, encounter hurdles to gaining access and entry, moving up and conquering self-doubt; but on the other side is the capacity to own opportunity and tell our own story.” -Stacey Abrams.
Self-Acceptance is liberation. When you have accepted your past, you will have a more complete understanding of who you are. You can use your history to elevate and move you forward. You will know what you deserve, who is good for you, and the best ways to move within certain circles. It takes being true to yourself to accept your strengths and flaws fully. In my journey to Self-Acceptance, I stopped thinking about how people saw me, and I started being vocal about what works for me to be successful. I used to think I had to conform to what society said was right. Now, I am open and honest about what works for me on all levels. We are often faced with stereotypes, racism, and sexism. Our foundation of self-acceptance has to be firmly rooted in who we are. Embrace the good and the bad, the pretty and the ugly. The all. Embrace YOU.
“When you love and accept yourself, when you know who really cares about you, and when you learn from your mistakes, then you stop caring about what people who don’t know you think.” – Beyoncé Knowles.
Self-Love is an embraced expression of life. Self-Love is necessary and is not an act of selfishness. Live your life without wondering what others think, create your own goals, and constantly challenge the status quo. As you embrace self-awareness and self-acceptance, you will better understand yourself, and your love for who you are will be protected. Embarking on this journey of self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-love, remember to hold your head up and repeat after me: I am BEAUTIFUL! May my MIND, BODY & SOUL stay lifted in today’s society. I am SPECIAL! Close your eyes for a moment and embrace your awesomeness and greatness. Remember your story made you who you are in this moment, and it will continue to shape you into the person you’re supposed to be. Protect your Mind, Body, and Soul with your own thoughts and not the opinions of others. People will try to bring you down physically, emotionally, and spiritually but you have the power to free yourself.
“Only make decisions that support your self-image, self-esteem, and self-worth.” – Oprah Winfrey.
Strategies that will assist you on your journey to Self-Awareness, Self-Acceptance, and Self-Love:
- Reflect for understanding. Express yourself through journaling. Writing and reading your thoughts can assist with direction.
- What do self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-love look like for you?
- Who are the critical individuals in your circle that will encourage you in your journey?
- Take Time for Yourself. It is essential to focus on yourself to ensure growth.
- How much time can you dedicate to yourself each week? If you have a responsibility that doesn’t allow you to be constant for yourself. Take an hour in the morning (wake up an hour early) or (go to sleep an hour late) late at night.
- Affirmations are a positive way to ensure you keep your mindset lifted.
We Are Art,
Steele Speaking
Darlene M. Steele
