You've been talking in your sleep

Why is it that I sacrifice myself for the acceptance of others when the one I most need acceptance from IS me? I am baffled by this often...too often in fact!  It's funny that when searching for someone to say "well done" or "nice  job" or "impressive" I forget to look to the person who should appreciate me most...me, again. When seeking love, pats on the back, forgiveness, compliments, praise...who knows best what to say? Me. So why is it so hard to say it to myself? Funny how after years and years of "looking for myself", I can't seem to look at myself in the mirror anymore without judgement, criticism, & even shame sometimes for not believing in myself and my own abilities as a person.  I let people steal the best of me and replace it with a person I don't like being around. I have to learn to appreciate me, regardless of what I receive from anyone else. I have a lot to offer and a lot to say. I just need to start speaking the language to me!