Why is it so impossible to take care of ourselves the way we take care of others? Think about the chatter that goes on in your head, the non-stop broken record that keeps telling you who you have been and the stories that define you?
You have to take a deep breath and think about what your response would be to a loved one, or friend if they came to you with self doubt and despair. I believe that most of you would be empathetic and give words of encouragement. Yet, when it comes to ourselves, we can’t allow ourselves to be kind, empathetic or forgiving.
Believing in yourself is much easier said, than done. So how can you cultivate self -belief? I would like to share some ideas that I have found to work. This may not be easy for some of you, but if you want to believe in your greater purpose, there are a few things you must START doing!
1) Protecting your Heart!
Be smart enough to know when something does not “feel” right when someone makes you feel uncomfortable. Pay attention to your feelings and learn how to walk away from toxic people.
2) De-Clutter Your Mind
Everyone seems to have a full plate. In this age of technology we get bombarded with Email, Tweets, Facebook Posts, Texting, etc…Our brains can’t seem to keep up with it all, nor were our brains designed to filter information so fast. The problem is, that along with the information overload, we hear negativity all day long – from the new reports, gossip posts, to purely brainless themes. Each of these distractions as a stand alone do not cause much harm. However, over time it can affect our thinking and the trick is to limit what we choose to listen to. Try to take a few minutes a day and just “Breathe”. Listen to some meditation music, take a bath and love yourself enough to want to deflate.
3) Believe That You Are NOT Alone
When we experience a set back, one of the most common reactions is to talk self-loathing. We feel like we failed, and think about why we are so incapable of success? You may see the media portray others as happy go lucky, without a care in the world. Remember, everyone has challenges and you are most likely not alone in how you are feeling. I am a huge advocate of “group” support. In each one of my classes, the “safe – space” lets us open up and share our fears and feelings. I encourage anyone reading this to try this approach.
4) Fake It Till You Make It
Posture is the simple act of speaking confidently and assertively (even if you are not feeling it). When you speak in a strong manner, people listen to what you have to say. This will help you have greater control over your ability to work through self-doubt and drive home, self-confidence.
Be kind to yourself and tell yourself that “I Am Worth it”. Each one of you is a unique and special person. Focus on your positive attributes. Be kind to yourself. it is the first step to self-care. Think about it this way: Nothing will work for you if you don’t believe in it. More importantly, nothing will work if you don’t believe in yourself.
