Who am I...really?

Self-acceptance—it's a sticky one. What a tangled web we weave when we try to be who we think we should be instead of embracing who we truly are. Peter Parker vs Spiderman.

What does self-acceptance look like? It’s the ability to accept—and forgive—yourself as you are.

Not the 'best version of you' but the version that exists right now.

Flaws, strengths, mistakes, triumphs, quirks, and all.

It’s not about letting yourself off the hook for things that matter. It’s about acknowledging your role in situations, taking accountability, and moving forward without the weight of shame or guilt dragging you down.

A few self-check-in prompts to try:

Is there something that’s been bothering me?
- What is my role in that?
- Can I forgive myself for my part and accept that I won’t always get it right?
Can I also celebrate the great work I’m doing and the positive contributions I’m making?

Here’s the kicker: self-acceptance means holding space for both truths at once. Yes, I could have handled that situation differently. Yes, I’m still a person who shows up and tries their best.

How to practice self-acceptance today:

1. Create space for self-reflection.

Find a quiet moment to pause. Light a candle, make a cup of tea, or grab your journal—whatever works for you.

2. Choose a prompt (or a few) from above.

Let your thoughts flow. There’s no right or wrong way to do this.

3. Acknowledge what comes up.

The good, the bad, the uncomfortable—accept it all. It’s part of your story, and stories aren’t linear.

4. Be kind to yourself.

Literally say something kind to yourself. There's a simple one that you can align with your breath.

Breathing in, I do my best.
Breathing out, I let go of the rest.

You are your harshest critic and your most consistent companion. Practicing self-acceptance is like giving your inner critic a warm blanket and a cup of tea—it softens the edges and reminds you that being human is a messy, beautiful, imperfect thing.

This series of newsletters are individual steps in the emotional health, self check-in exercise that can be found on page 116 of Design Character. If you don't yet have a copy, we just got a fresh shipment in so now is your chance! Click here to grab yours.

Embrace who you are, as you are.

You've got this.

Love,