Well, I think this Thursday Thought is going to be slightly different from some of my previous Thursday Thoughts...Are you ready for this? I'm not sure that I am, but here goes nothing.
I don't know if you are like me or not, but I am the type of person who internalizes criticism. If someone tells me I'm doing something wrong, or I'm not good enough, or simply that I could be doing something to better I really take it personally. I know this probably isn't a good thing, but I have always been this way and I probably won't change. This internalization happens to go right along with a fear of being reprimanded. I hold myself to high standards, I know when I mess up. When I really mess up, I feel REALLY bad and often times embarrassed. So, to have someone point out a flaw or a mistake I made, just makes it all the worse. It's like pouring salt in the wound.
In the not too distant past, there was a period of time where some person(s) decided that they were going to critique and criticize what seemed like everything about me. This went on for some time and I started to feel really down on myself. Was I really that bad of a person? How could someone treat another person this way and think it was okay? This is still a question I ask myself. I just don't seem to get it and I don't think I ever will. I have never been the type of person to intentionally tear someone else down.
Back to the story...
So, I was feeling really down on myself and I wasn't sure what to do. Then one day, I began doing what I call channeling my inner awesomeness. Yes, you read that right, I began channeling my inner AH-SOME-NESS.
How does one being to channel their inner awesomeness?
1. Stop caring about what other people think, especially those who are critical. Who cares what they say or think? What do they know? Obviously, they don't know you and how awesome you really are.
Note- this can be really hard to do but it is so worth it.
2. Make a list of things you enjoy doing or want to do and begin making those things happen. Maybe they are things that you used to do and for some reason you just stopped doing them.
3. Remind yourself everyday that "You are awesome!" because even though you might not know it right now, you really are AWESOME!
4. Exercise and really push yourself when you workout. After a good workout your body will naturally release hormones called endorphins, they make you feel happy. If I'm not in the mood to workout, I tell myself that "I am freaking awesome and now it's time to go kill it at the gym." Music with a faster beat always helps me keep a pace while I exercise.
5. Eat healthy food. You just feel so much lighter after eating a healthy meal. I don't know how else to explain this.
6. Get a good 7-8 hours of sleep each night. It's hard to be positive and happy and awesome when you are tired.
7. Get out in nature and enjoy the beauty around you. I'm often reminded of God's love for me, when I am hiking or visiting the ocean.
8. Talk with someone who really loves and cares about you. Ask them to tell you why they love you and have them remind you about the things you are good at.
9. Count your blessings. There is something about gratitude. For me thinking about all of the things I am grateful for, reminds me of how prominently the Lord's hand is in my life.
10. Think beyond yourself and give service. Maybe this means sending someone a message of love and support who is having a hard time. Or you could visit with the residents at an old folks home or volunteer at your local soup kitchen or food bank.
I know life can be challenging and people aren't always nice. But you aren't one of those people and you won't succumb to their level and tactics. You are kind and beautiful! Did I mention YOU ARE AWESOME? Well, you are!
The world is yours, now get out there and keep being the awesome person I know you are!
Carpe Diem!
