“The Future Depends on What You Do Today”

What do you think of yourself?

So often we are concerned about what others think of us. My question to you is: What are you truly thinking of and feeling about yourself?

What you think of and feel about yourself are by far more important than what others think of you. How you think and feel about yourself, is your self-esteem. If you do not feel good about yourself, you are less likely to make good decisions. What you think of and feel about yourself will drive how others will experience you and how they respond and react to you.

So, how do you improve your self-esteem?

  1. Get to know yourself better

Think of yourself as a fascinating person you want to make friends with. You can achieve this by –

– Keeping a daily journal of your routine, conversations with friends, emotions, personal frustrations, etc.;

– Making a list of experiences you would like to have;

– Challenging yourself to try something new on a regular basis;

– Identifying, through lists or journaling, your main likes and dislikes;

– Identifying strengths and growth areas and put a plan in place.

These exercises can help you to build a more complete picture of yourself as a person, outside the influence of anyone else.

  1. Seek what you really want

Generally it is helpful to get insight from others, especially for big decisions. However, it is important to draw a distinction between finding value in this guidance and letting it sway you from your preferred path. Be careful that you do not live someone else’s dreams, but know and live your own dreams.

  1. Stop comparing yourself with others

Comparing yourself to someone else can motivate you to aim for similar goals. That could be a good thing. Unfortunately comparisons can become problematic when they distract you from what really matters to you.

Instead of comparing yourself to others, look at the things you already have. Who/what brings you joy? What do you feel grateful for? What would you like more of? Less of?

  1. Develop your self-care plan

Self-care allows you to turn your attention toward yourself. We all need to address our basic needs (sleep, nutrition, exercise and relaxation). If you neglect these needs, you are most probably not getting enough time to recharge from all your stresses. To get started with self-care you can make time for physical activities and exercise; eat nutritional food; read a book; spend time in nature and many more.

Start small by choosing perhaps only one thing that you will do for you and begin to implement that in your life.

  1. Show yourself some love

As noted earlier, you need to treat yourself life a friend. Here are a few simple steps you can follow –

– Instead of chasing a deadline at all costs, take a break and give yourself time to recharge;

– Instead of criticising yourself for failure; encourage yourself with a reminder that you did your best and are learning from the experience;

– Know when you need a break; and

– Give yourself a hug  (yes, I mean physically and emotionally).

 

Many of you might be taking some time off in December. This is the ideal time to commence your focus on the above items. Also ensure that they are part of your goals for 2023.

It is not selfish to love yourself, take care of yourself, and to make your happiness a priority. It is a necessity.