Be Proud of who you are!

As we journey through life, we often hear whispers of the midlife crisis looming ahead, a distant concern in our youth but a reality as we approach our forties. In our twenties, we brush it off, immersed in the fervor of building our lives, pursuing dreams, and embracing experiences. Yet, when the milestone arrives, introspection beckons, and we find ourselves contemplating the trajectory of our existence thus far.

It’s a curious phenomenon, observed not just within ourselves but resonating among peers and connections of similar age. The crossroads of the forties seem to herald a collective pause for reflection, marked by career redirections and existential ponderings.

In my own journey, I’ve delved into various practices, including aspects of tantra, not in its erotic dimensions but in its spiritual depths. Among the myriad exercises, one profoundly confronted me: the mandate to be genuinely proud of oneself.

Picture this: standing before strangers, part of a group, tasked with articulating for five minutes what you hold dear, what achievements you cherish. It’s an exercise in vulnerability, a challenge to peel back the layers of modesty and self-effacement that cloak our true sentiments.

Initially, the discomfort is palpable. To speak of oneself to unfamiliar ears is daunting. To extol personal triumphs, to vocalize why one is proud, is even more so. Rarely do we afford ourselves the luxury of acknowledging our victories, let alone broadcasting them.

We tread cautiously, lest we veer into narcissism. Yet, in ancient Greek lore, the tale of Narcissus held a different hue, a philosophical musing on the nature of beauty and self-perception. It was only later, in the annals of Christian doctrine, that the narrative shifted, seeking conformity over exceptionality.

In this quest for self-understanding, Carl Jung’s words resonate: “The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.” Amidst the labyrinth of self-discovery, we find solace in his wisdom, recognizing that true pride lies not in comparison or competition but in the profound acknowledgment of our individual journeys.

So, I propose a ritual of self-celebration, a deliberate act of recognition and affirmation. Regularly, stand before the mirror, gaze into your reflection, and recount your triumphs—big or small, personal or professional. Speak them aloud, with conviction, allowing the resonance of your voice to affirm your worth.

Invite others into this sacred space, if they’re willing, for communal reinforcement. Embrace the truth: you are exceptional, endowed with unique talents and accomplishments. Let pride swell within you, for in acknowledging your greatness, you pave the path for even greater feats ahead.

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