“Wholeness is not achieved by cutting off a portion of one’s being, but by integration of the contraries.” – C.G. Jung
We’re all broken in some way or another. But it’s how we deal with our brokenness that really matters. Learning to embrace my broken pieces (flaws, insecurities, mistakes, and disappointments) is what I’m working on in this current season of my life.
Personally, when I used to hear the word wholeness, I assumed it meant perfection. But now, I’ve come to realize that wholeness is all about embracing every part of ourselves—including our imperfections.
When we can embrace our weaknesses and brokenness in life, we can then become more whole. In this article, we’ll discuss three ways you can become your truest self by cultivating wholeness and inner peace.
The purpose of our journey is to restore ourselves to wholeness.
Debbie Ford
1. Strive for Wholeness, Not Perfection
Give yourself permission to not do things perfectly. When you mess up (and you will!), learn to forgive yourself and move on. Messiness is a part of our growth, and it can make us stronger and wiser in the long run.
Over the years, I’ve learned that the chase for perfection is a pointless pursuit—and one that can have negative effects on our mental health. When we hold ourselves to unrealistic standards on a regular basis, we invite feelings of depression, anxiety, insecurity, and low self-worth to take control of our lives. The first step to attaining wholeness, is to simply understand that nothing is perfect, and it never will be.
So, give yourself a little grace when you fall short. Because sometimes, it’s not about measuring up as much as it is about showing up.
2. Don’t Fear Vulnerability
Like many, I was once terrified at the thought of being vulnerable. However, I’m now at a place in life where I embrace vulnerability.
Oftentimes, we try to hide our weaknesses, fears, and insecurities because we feel as though we struggle alone. But you’d actually be amazed at the number of people who share the same struggles and discomforts as you. When you open up and allow yourself to be vulnerable, not only do you gain strength and confidence to live a genuinely authentic life, but you also give others strength and confidence to do the same.
The truth is, if we want to grow to our fullest potential in life, then we must be willing to do hard things. Sometimes that includes taking the chances that frighten us, sharing difficult emotions, and allowing ourselves to feel temporarily uncomfortable.
3. Embrace God’s Grace
Oftentimes, we fail to see beyond our weaknesses. We often focus on our perceived shortcomings, rather than embracing our strengths and beauty. But what keeps me grounded is Psalm 139—because it reminds us that we are fearfully and wonderfully made.
The truth is, despite how you may feel at times, God sees more than flaws and brokenness when He looks at you. He knows every detail of your past. He’s aware of every fault and defect—yet still considers you to be a masterpiece. That’s a perfect definition of love!
Personally, having a close relationship with God has been the key to establishing a better relationship with myself. The more I take comfort in God’s grace, the more I begin to see myself through His eyes—and understand that things can be broken AND beautiful at the same time.
In life, we will experience hurts, failures, and disappointments—but God is bigger than them all. You see, finding wholeness isn’t about completely eliminating our brokenness; it’s about letting grace in so that we can live our lives with peace, joy, and authenticity!
50 responses to “Wholeness: How to Make Peace with Your Broken Pieces”
Thanks so much for this advice. It’s all so true. And yes, Psalm 139 is a great way to remember how God made us so wonderfully. Receiving His grace and practicing self compassion is my goal too.
Glad you enjoyed it, Gina! Yes, Psalm 139 definitely reminds us to practice self-compassion. Thanks for reading.
This was right on time for me and wonderfully said. Thank you for sharing!
So glad this post resonated with you. Thanks for reading, Nathania!
Very helpful post. We all need to be reminded from time to time!
Thanks, Luana!
This is truly a word in due season. I too am on a journey to wholeness. When I become frustrated and focused on my weaknesses, I have to remind myself to look at becoming whole not as a destination, but as a journey. Thanks for your encouraging words as I continue to progress.
Focusing on the “journey.” I love it! Wishing you continued success on your healing process.
This is something I’m working on. And your words here are very helpful!
Laurie, it’s a work in progress for me as well. Glad you found this post helpful, dear.
Love this. We have to learn to be more kind to ourselves.
Yes, indeed. Self-kindness is key, Brandi!
Thanks for your post, need some reminders everyone now and then.
Thanks for reading, dear.
This is such an inspiring post to really work on ourselves. I love that it’s not about perfection and that messiness is a part of life. Thank you for giving some very thoughtful ideas!
Glad you found it inspiring, Debbie. I like to write about what’s real and relatable, and “messiness” is definitely real!
Truth! I struggle but I will get there too.
Traci, the struggle is REAL for all of us sometimes. Just keep working at it. You will surely get there!
Love reading this!
Good to hear. Thanks, hun!
I enjoyed this pick me up and the reminder of what is truly most important. This post was a blessing to me, today.
I’m so glad it blessed you, Susan! Thanks for taking the time to read it.
Thank you so much for this beautifully written article it’s true focusing on perfectionism and flawless isn’t realistic!
So glad you liked it, Julie!
I have been working on this as well. Thank you! ❤️
Such a beautifully written article which inspired me. We need to remember to embrace our ‘brokenness’ and learn from it.
Stephanie, I’m so glad this post inspired you! Yes, embracing our brokenness and learning from our mistakes is definitely something we should always remember.
Awesome post! we are human beings. We are in the process, on a journey and we need to remember that.
Yes, Nisee! Emphasis on the “journey.”
Highly descriptive article, I liked that bit. Will there
be a part 2?
I really enjoyed this article. Thanks for your words.😊
Glad you enjoyed it!
Focus on the journey. The advice that I need. Thanks for this insightful post.
You bet, Lani. All about the journey, not the destination. Glad you found this article helpful!
Beautiful and inspiring 🥰🩷
Love this to remind ourselves that no one is perfect. Thanks for sharing this post.
Great article! “Things can be broken and beautiful at the same time.”
These are such important reminders for all of us – love this post, thank you for sharing!
I’ve been looking for something to encourage and inspire my niece to seek wholeness and not perfection. This article is God’s perfect timing. Thank you
I’m working on this with my teenage daughter, Amy. It’s so important to teach our young girls how to seek wholeness and not perfection. Wishing the best for your niece!
Beautiful and honest writing. As Alice Walker said, “The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any” We have the power to free ourselves and embrace who we are.
Well said, Ronda!
I am wonderfully and fearfully made Psalms 139:14
I enjoyed reading this article and loved how you said to give yourself permission not to do things perfectly.
God’s grace is sufficient. Praise Him!
Excellent advice in your post. I’ve been a victim of perfectionism, but I’ve learned that getting things to be perfect is actually a waste of productivity.
Such true and wise words. This is something I need to think about and work on. We have to be more accepting of ourselves as well as others.
We should choose peace whenever we are faced with an opportunity.
Greetings! Very useful advice within this article!
It is the little changes that will make the biggest changes.
Thanks a lot for sharing!
Very helpful post. I really enjoyed reading it. Thank you for sharing.