You are enough.

In our efforts to be “enough,” we often find ourselves stuck in a damaging cycle of perform, please, and perfect, shaming ourselves for our shortcomings and hiding them from others. We bury our softer, more vulnerable parts to project an image of hard strength and unbreakable will. We put off doing things we want to do because we don’t feel talented enough to start that blog or capable enough to do those kitchen renovations. And we always say yes, no matter how much we can’t or simply don’t want to do something.

We search for perfection in others and pine for it, comparing ourselves to them and feeling lesser when we don’t measure up, no matter how unreasonable our expectations are.

This image of perfection is just that: An image.

Social media has left us feeling constantly on display to the world, but people aren’t museum exhibits. We can’t be expected to look and behave the same perfect way all the time because we are ever-changing. Nobody is immune to imperfections. We need help. We make mistakes. We outright fail.

By cultivating our courage to be who we are uncensored, compassion to others and to ourselves, and connections with people through both good times and bad, we can begin to recognize our self-worth and live with meaning and satisfaction. We can be us, exactly as we are, and go through life with confidence and joy.

You are enough. Whoever you are, whatever you do, is exactly enough.