A Mirror I Didn’t Expect: How a Challenge Revived My Self-Love Journey

Self-love is not a destination—it’s a journey. Sometimes it’s easy to feel like you’ve reached a solid point in that journey, that you’ve made enough progress to stand tall and proud. That’s how I felt, or thought I felt, until a recent challenge pulled me into a reflection I wasn’t ready for—but deeply needed.

I’ve never been shy about my self-love journey. I’ve talked openly about embracing my body, my curves, and my flaws. I’ve encouraged others to do the same. But when Rick announced this Vocal challenge, inviting us to write about ten things we appreciate about ourselves, I didn’t expect it to hit me the way it did. It wasn’t just a list—it became a mirror. One that revealed not just my strengths, but the areas I’ve neglected in silence.

Turns out, loving yourself in one area doesn’t mean you’ve mastered it in others.

It’s easy to confuse body positivity with full self-acceptance. I’ve spent so long learning to love what I see in the mirror that I forgot to listen to the voice inside me—the one that still struggles with worthiness, with vulnerability, with showing up when I’m not at 100%. And that realization, uncomfortable as it was, became a powerful moment of growth.

Before I dive into the ten things I appreciate about myself, I want to express gratitude—to Rick, the Vocal community, and this very challenge. Your encouragement lit a fire in me I didn’t know had dimmed. Writing this piece pulled me from a plateau I didn’t even realize I was stuck on. It reminded me that the journey continues—and that’s okay.

Ten Things I Appreciate About Myself

1. My unique social balance

I like to call myself a “selective butterfly.” I’m about 75% extrovert and 25% introvert. I love being around people and can light up a room, but I also treasure my alone time. The best part? I don’t need company to enjoy life. Whether I’m out with friends or curled up with a book, I’ve learned to make joy a solo and shared experience.

2. My unfiltered, joyful laugh

When I laugh—really laugh—it’s loud, it’s real, and it fills the room. For some, it might be a little too much, but for me, it’s a sign of freedom. When that laugh bursts out of me, I know I’m safe, I’m happy, and I’m exactly where I need to be.

3. My undefeated streak against sunburn

Yes, I’m aware this one’s a little silly—but I’ve never been sunburnt. I tan quickly and easily, and it’s become a small source of pride. It’s one of those odd little blessings that I appreciate more the older I get.

4. My resilience (and low bruise count)

As someone with terrible depth perception, I bump into things more than I’d like to admit. But I don’t bruise easily, and thank goodness for that. My body might not always be graceful, but it’s sturdy. That resilience has served me beyond the physical—it’s become a part of how I approach life.

5. I feel beautiful without makeup

Makeup is stunning, and I admire those who wear it beautifully. But for me, sensory sensitivities make it hard to wear. The few times I’ve tried, I couldn’t wait to wipe it off. And you know what? I’ve never felt like I needed it. Not to feel pretty, not to feel confident. That’s a win I hold close.

6. Repetition doesn’t bore me—it comforts me

I can rewatch shows, replay songs, and revisit books without losing interest. My brain finds comfort in familiarity, and that’s helped me stay grounded during stressful times. When the world feels chaotic, I know I can rely on my favorite things to bring peace.

7. I laugh at myself—even in the awkward moments

Embarrassing things happen. Like the time my knees gave out and I collapsed like a sack of potatoes. I wasn’t hurt, but even if I had been, I would’ve laughed. It’s my way of coping, of choosing joy over shame. Life is too short to take yourself too seriously.

8. I read like the wind

While I’m no Spencer Reid from Criminal Minds, I’ve read 700-page books in under six hours. My schedule doesn’t always allow long reading sessions these days, but when I do sit down, I dive in deep. Reading quickly helps me consume more stories, and in turn, tell better ones.

9. I’m learning to be vulnerable—with the right people

This might be the hardest one. For years, I kept my walls high. But I’ve started letting them down, carefully, intentionally. It’s not easy, but being able to say “I need help” or “I’m not okay” to someone who loves me? That’s powerful. That’s progress.

10. My budgeting skills are solid

I can stretch a dollar like it’s elastic. Life isn’t always financially easy, but I’ve learned to manage, plan, and make wise choices. My budget doesn’t just keep me afloat—it helps me feel in control.

The Wrap-Up

Writing this list wasn’t easy. In fact, it was much harder than I expected. But it’s also been one of the most fulfilling pieces I’ve written.

It reminded me that self-love isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about pausing, checking in with yourself, and acknowledging the parts you often overlook. It’s about celebrating not just the “loud” wins, but the quiet, everyday strengths that carry you through.

If you’re on your own self-love journey, I hope this inspires you to pause and take stock—not just of how far you’ve come, but of the beautiful, messy, growing human you are right now.