You belong. You don’t belong. Two simple sentences. The first implies warmth, security, community, acceptance, and understanding, while the second holds sadness, rejection, and even hopelessness. It’s not about being smart or working hard; you may be smarter, and you frequently work harder. And yet the sense of not fitting in can still be tangible.

So much of our suffering is self-induced. Our inner critic creates a constant narrative in our head, often fostered by feelings of disconnection and a knowledge of being “other.” Microaggressions, subtle and non-subtle, reinforce these impressions and tear us down bit by bit until we can feel that it’s nearly impossible to be seen, heard, or accepted for who you are.

Cultivating self-compassion can help to reclaim your joy and sense of self.

It’s not easy. We’re not used to it. But we wouldn’t treat people we love the way we treat ourselves. You are enough. You are whole as you are, perfectly imperfect. Embrace yourself and all that you do. You are amazing.

Recommended:
Fierce Self-Compassion, Kristin Neff, Ph.D.
You Belong, Sebene Selassie