A number of years ago I had the privilege of presenting a series of short stories I had written to my son’s grade 2 class, complete with fun props that brought the stories to life.
My favorite story was titled “A Celebration of You!” In this lovely tale, Mrs. Bradley, the grade 2 teacher, had the class celebrating the most important person in the world, themselves. She had the children write down all the things they liked about themselves on balloons and buttons using the brightest piece of paper they could find and using a coloured pencil in the colour they liked most.
When was the last time you made a “What I like about me” button? Chances are you never have. Or, when was the last time you said one nice thing to yourself like “Great job! I’m so proud of me?” Can’t remember can you? Sadly, as adults we’ve become so involved in work, family, and life in general that we forgot to appreciate ourselves for the awesome creatures we’ve become or the great job we’ve done raising our family.
Liking Yourself
Liking and appreciating yourself is a vital component of your health and well-being. So go ahead, grab the prettiest coloured pencil you can find. Then write down all the things you like about you. For Example:
I like my: ___(pretty green eyes)____.
I’m really good at: ___(my job)____.
I have a great: ___(smile, derriere, outlook on life)____.
I like to: ___(growing and learn new things)___.
I am proud of:__(opening my own business)___.
Add a few more of your own: ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________
Next, write down all your accomplishments, large and small and take pride in what you’ve accomplished in your life. You may be surprised to see just how many accomplishments there are.
While you’re at it, ask friends and relatives to tell you one thing they like about you, only one (even though we know there are a whole lot more). This can help you to start seeing yourself positively through other people’s eyes.
Now chase away that negative inner voice. Every time you hear your inner voice saying something negative, read from your “What I Like About Me” list. Over time you will begin to change what your inner voice says.
Take Care Of You
Begin to take better care of yourself, telling yourself that you are worthy of being pampered – because you are. Prepare a nice dinner for yourself rather than what everyone else likes to eat.
Make time to do activities that you enjoy. The more you take care of yourself, the more you appreciate being you.
Keep a small notebook with you and write down whenever someone gives you a compliment. Revel in how much you are appreciated by those around you.
Diligently look for things to complement yourself on. Be your own biggest fan. It’s okay. Really. All of us have good aspects, be thankful for that.
Most of all, practice, practice, practice. Make the effort to be happy about the truly awesome person you are. Life takes on a whole new meaning when we tackle it with happiness and self assurance. Oh, the joys of being you!
