We try so many ways to improve ourselves. We try fasting, meditation, getting to sleep early, or jogging daily. Unfortunately, we fail at the end of the day. Thus, we become stuck on the quest to find the key that unlocks our ideal self, the version of us that can deliver the happiness we seek.

Does it click with you? You are not the only one. Many people in the West try to accept themselves. This trend originated half a century ago. Then, the scholars started perceiving self-esteem as a solution to all social challenges, either poorness or domestic violence. As a result, the shift toward focusing on our self-perception has decreased our happiness.

You likely harbored ambitious dreams in your childhood. Perhaps you aspired to become the next Beyoncé or Madonna. However, as you grew up, you realized your dream was just a fantasy. You realized you lacked the necessary talent despite your wish to become a star. You could not fulfill that fantasy.

Yet, in adulthood, you encounter a contrasting message from influencers. You are enough to achieve everything in the world, no matter how hard it can be. Sure, this perspective may offer solace for a while. However, at some point, you will meet something that contradicts these affirmations. You may forget about a boiling soup or accidentally delete an important file. Or you can fail to accept your acne or stretch marks, even if you want to. Disappointed, you convince yourself that another self-improvement technique will be that one magic solution.

You ought to accept that you cannot solve a problem like that. Unfortunately, you cannot become confident only by yourself. That is why an unceasing pursuit of self-love can leave you feeling drained, empty, and devoid of purpose. Look beyond yourself for a remedy!

Where can you find what you need? You should realize that God loves you! Self-love may deplete your energy, yet God's love is unwavering. God's love for you is limitless despite your imperfections. He does not care about them! When you realize that He loves you, you stop needing to find self-acceptance only in yourself. Thus, you do not have to rush to try new practices anymore.