How Admitting Weakness Can Become a Strength

Though we may at times succumb to the inevitable routine of everyday life, the reality is, each of us are on a quest to achieve happiness. This state of contentment is likely envisioned different by each person with their unique goals and dreams, but for all of us, true happiness is contingent on our acceptance of ourselves, with all of our distinct strengths and weaknesses.

Simply put, satisfaction with oneself must be reached, otherwise happiness will never be fully obtained - no matter how "perfect" the surrounding life situation may seem.

Admitting Weakness is a Step to Furthering Happiness

Research in the field of positive psychology demonstrates that the primary difference between a "happy person" and "sad person" is not the absence or presence of negative emotions, respectively; but instead the way negative emotions and conditions are experienced and reacted to. This finding is similarly applied to the perspective held on our individual selves.

Those of us who cannot confidently view our own dispositions, and all of the strengths and weaknesses that naturally come with it, are significantly less satisfied in life. On the contrary, happier individuals are those who can honestly examine their characters, and regularly exercise the following steps:

1. Admit their strengths
2. Acknowledge their flaws and weaknesses
3. Identify ways to continue improving
• Thus remaining optimistic about their personality and individual nature

The act of admitting your weaknesses thus becomes, in and of itself, a strength. It is a necessary prerequisite to personal growth and development, and a fundamental requirement to achieving greater intrinsic happiness.

Added Protection

Admitting weakness is additionally a strength in that it provides increased defense. Indeed, the act of admitting weaknesses does not grant immediate conquer over them, but it does provide a magnified perspective that makes you better equipped to subvert them, for one is less able to challenge a weakness in ignorance, or denial, of its existence.

If for example, you acknowledge that you possess a weakness for a given substance (e.g., alcohol), this knowledge and admission does not eliminate said weakness, but provides you greater caution and power to avoid a situation where your weakness may be exploited.

Being Honest with Yourself

In theory, the steps previously outlined for happier individuals are simple and straightforward, so why are they often difficult to complete? For many of us, the first step is easy for the same reason the second step is challenging - pride. English novelist Emily Brontë once brilliantly noted, "Proud people breed sorrow for themselves." With an inability to override pride, and our aversion to vulnerability, we cannot admit our shortcomings, and therefore jeopardize our growth and happiness.

It is then crucial to be honest with ourselves, and accept the truth that no person is perfect. This conscious recognition combats the boundary of pride. You are not alone in possessing imperfections. What separates the truly successful, happy, and personally accomplished are not those who do and do not have imperfections, but those who do and do not acknowledge them, and make plans to improve further.

Moreover, admitting and overcoming individual weaknesses is a journey that must not be taken alone. If you or a loved one are seeking professional help on this, or other matters of personal development, WinGate Wilderness Therapy is the perfect resource. With experienced counselors and a nationally acclaimed program, WinGate can help you just like they have countless others in their pursuit of greater happiness and self-improvement. For more information, cal us at (800) 560-1599 today.