The following skills can help you live authentically in the face of persistent social disapproval:
- **1.** **Courage:** Courage is the ability to face fear, uncertainty, or adversity without letting it hold you back from pursuing your goals or living according to your values. It involves standing up for yourself despite societal pressure or criticism. This skill enables you to stay true to who you are even when others disagree.
If your family does not approve of your same-sex relationship but you find fulfillment in it, courage allows you to stay committed to your partner and be open about your identity.
- **2.** **Self-awareness:** Self-awareness means being conscious of your emotions, thoughts, beliefs, strengths, weaknesses, motivations, and desires. It helps you understand why you do what you do and how your actions affect those around you. With self-awareness, you can recognize when you are conforming to societal expectations out of fear or obligation rather than because they align with your core values. You may then choose to challenge these norms or change them.
If your friends judge your decision to reject gender roles, self-awareness lets you know that you value equality and autonomy more than their opinions.
- **3.** **Emotional regulation:** Emotional regulation refers to managing your feelings and responses in a healthy way. It includes recognizing and acknowledging your emotions, expressing them appropriately, and controlling impulsive reactions. With this skill, you can handle disapproval calmly and rationally, avoiding reactivity and defensiveness.
If someone says something hurtful about your sexual orientation, you may acknowledge your pain but choose not to engage in an argument. This can help maintain relationships while still standing up for yourself.
- **4.** **Empathy:** Empathy involves putting yourself in another person's shoes, imagining their perspective, and feeling compassion for their experience. It enables you to connect with others despite differences in beliefs, backgrounds, or lifestyles. By empathizing with your loved ones who disapprove of your choices, you can show understanding and build mutual respect.
If your parents are uncomfortable with your polyamorous relationship, empathy allows you to see where they are coming from without invalidating their feelings.
- **5.** **Resilience:** Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity, setbacks, or failures. It involves adapting positively to challenges and overcoming obstacles. When faced with social disapproval, resilient people do not give up on themselves or their values but continue striving towards authentic living. They stay focused on what matters most to them and find support when needed.
If your partner rejects nonmonogamy, resiliency lets you explore other options that align with your desire for intimacy.
- **6.** **Self-compassion:** Self-compassion is treating yourself kindly and forgivingly, even during difficult times. It includes being mindful of your inner thoughts and emotions, accepting them without judgment, and offering kindness rather than self-criticism. With this skill, you can maintain self-esteem and motivation in the face of rejection.
If a partner breaks up with you because of your sexual orientation, self-compassion helps you recognize your worth as a person beyond their opinion.
By developing these skills, you can navigate persistent social disapproval and live authentically according to your beliefs and desires. It may take time, practice, and support, but it's essential for personal growth and well-being.
What emotional skills are required to live authentically in the face of persistent social disapproval?
One important emotion skill that is needed for living authentically in the face of persistent social disapproval is resilience. Resilience refers to an individual's ability to adapt positively to adversity and bounce back from stressful experiences. Individuals with high levels of resilience can maintain their sense of self despite external pressures, and they may even be able to thrive despite these challenges.