In an ever-changing world, as busy professional women, it’s easy to feel like we need to be constantly fixing things around us. Whether it be optimizing a work process or trying to help our loved ones improve their habits, we constantly strive to make things better. While this can be a valuable trait, it can also put a lot of pressure on ourselves and those around us. Let’s take a look at three mental health benefits of not trying to change people and why it’s important to practice accepting others as they are.
Reduced Stress and Anxiety
When we try to change people, we put a lot of pressure on ourselves to succeed. We may feel like we’ve failed if we’re unable to convince someone to see things from our perspective. This can lead to increased stress and anxiety, as we constantly worry about our effectiveness. It’s also trying to be in control of something that we are not designed to be in control of. Accepting others as they are allows us to let go of this pressure and focus on how we can control our own actions and attitudes.
Stronger Relationships
When we try to change people, we may unintentionally create a power dynamic that can strain relationships. People don’t like feeling like they’re being told what to do, and trying to change someone else’s behavior can come across that way. This is the perfect recipe for resentment. Accepting others as they are fostering a sense of mutual respect, and trust and highlights how valuable the authentic person is, allowing for deeper and more meaningful relationships.
Increased Self-Awareness
When we accept others as they are, we’re forced to take a closer look at ourselves. Our desire to change others often stems from our own insecurities or unfulfilled needs. If we can identify these within ourselves, we can work on addressing them directly rather than trying to change those around us. So, when you find yourself trying to change someone else, this is an indicator that some self-reflection is needed. What about this can be redirected inward? This can lead to increased self-awareness and personal growth.
In a world that fosters constant self-improvement, it’s important to remember that accepting others as they are can have a positive impact on our mental health. By letting go of the pressure to change people, we can reduce our stress and anxiety, strengthen our relationships, and increase our self-awareness. As busy professional women, we can benefit from incorporating this mindset into our daily lives, both at work and at home. Remember, while change may be necessary at times, acceptance and compassion should always be our default.
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