Imagine this: You’re enjoying a peaceful sleep and your alarm clock suddenly and rudely jolts you out to the reality of a busy morning! And you groan, thinking, “Ugh, another day.” We have all been there, I guess.
I know I have.
But what if, just for a moment, you could transform that groan into an excited little smile?
The Gratitude Effect: Light in the Darkness
Negativity is a sneaky beast; it thrives in the shadows of our minds. But guess what? Gratitude is like a spotlight, banishing those gloomy thoughts to the corners of your consciousness where they belong. It’s a powerful force that can flip the script on your inner monologue. 🎭
Strategy #1: The Morning Magic
Start your day with a gratitude ritual. Instead of groaning, wake up with a smile and thank the Lord for another beautiful day. Open your window, look out, feel the breeze, inhale the fresh morning air (if you live in the countryside) and look around for anything that could make you smile and be grateful for. They could be as simple as the warm sunlight, the morning dew on the leaves, a bird chirping or a new blossom right in front of your window.
Strategy #2: The Gratitude Journal
Imagine this: You’ve had a busy day. Your boss shouted at you. A client cancelled an appointment. Instead of focusing on the bad that happened, instead of dwelling on the negative, and replaying the shouting or whatever it is that made your day bad, take out your gratitude journal at the end of the day and think of three things that made the day better.
Some gratitude journals have prompts that you can answer. This will make your reflection time easier for you.
And maybe, most probably, after writing in your journal, you’ll realize that despite everything, it was still a good day after all.
Strategy #3: The Power of “But”
We all have moments when negativity threatens to engulf us. That’s when you pull out your secret weapon: the word “but.” When you catch yourself thinking, “I had a terrible day at work,” pause and say, “I had a terrible day at work, yet there are so many things that make today still a good day.”
See what just happened there? Positivity cracked through the negativity like a ray of sunshine!
Strategy #4: The Gratitude Walk
When you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a walk outside. As you stroll, name things you’re grateful for. It could be the chirping birds, the rustling leaves, or the fresh air filling your lungs. With each step, let gratitude replace the worries and stress.
Transforming Negativity into Positivity, One Grateful Thought at a Time
Gratitude isn’t just a feel-good emotion; gratitude is a fuel for your ambitions. Knowing that your days are good keeps you motivated and can supercharge your drive, clear the obstacles, and put your goals within arm’s reach.
Negativity doesn’t stand a chance against the relentless power of gratitude. It’s like a forcefield for your mind, shielding you from the darkness of pessimism. So, if you haven’t adopted this gratitude habit, it’s time to start!
Hey, is your heart heavy with your never-ending to-do list?
Do you often feel like you have the weight of the world on your shoulders?
It’s time we had a heart-to-heart talk about self-care.
I’m not talking about bath bombs and spa trips.
I want to talk to you about unconventional ways to care for your well-being.
Here are some unconventional ways to care for yourself.
1.Embrace the quirks that make you, YOU.
Let’s begin by acknowledging those quirks that make you unique. Self-care isn’t about conforming to society’s norms; it’s not about doing what everyone else is doing. It’s about celebrating your individuality and embracing the things that light your soul on fire.
So, wear those mismatched socks, if you are so inclined. Dance like no one’s watching (even if they are), and let your true colors shine. It’s time to own your quirks and revel in the joy they bring.
What can be more liberating than experiencing the joy that comes from being authentically you?
2. Go beyond bubble baths and cliches.
While bubble baths and scented candles have their charm, self-care goes beyond the clichés. Self-care is more about digging deep and tending to your soul’s cravings. There are so many unconventional self-care practices that you can explore like laughter therapy, karaoke nights with friends, or having a good cry to release pent-up emotions. Try to reflect on what truly nourishes your spirit and brings you back to life when you’re feeling a little lost and do that.
3. Prioritize YOURSELF in a world of demands.
Have you ever felt like you’re drowning in a sea of chores, errands and tasks?
And whenever you feel like you’re already rising up to the surface, somebody just pushes your head further down the deep end?
Unfortunately, life has a way of piling on demands and responsibilities, leaving little room for yourself.
But you know what? You can do something about it. You don’t have to drown in the sea of your duties and responsibilities. Put self-care in your priority list. It’s your way of survival.
You can’t pour from an empty cup. It’s time to flip the script and prioritize your well-being guilt-free.
Filling your cup is not selfish. It’s actually one way to make sure you’re able to show up meaningfully for those people you care about.
So learn to set boundaries, say no when needed, and create sacred moments of solitude. You owe it to yourself.
4. Let go of perfectionism and embrace self-compassion.
Guess what? It’s time to silence your inner critic. There are times when beauty is found in imperfection so learn to embrace it.
Give yourself room to make mistakes and grow. Celebrate small victories and remember that you are enough….JUST AS YOU ARE.
5. Cultivate joy in everyday moments.
It’s easy to miss the joy that everyday moments can bring if you’re always in a rush.
It’s time to slow down, open your eyes, and embrace the joy that’s waiting to be discovered. Whether it’s savoring a delicious cup of coffee, discovering a new blossom in your garden, finding delight in the laughter of the people you love, or taking in the stunning sight of a gorgeous sunset, these simple pleasures can fuel your soul and remind you of life’s extraordinary magic.
Remember:
Self-care is about honoring your quirks, prioritizing your well-being, and finding joy in the everyday. You don’t have to spend so much. You don’t have to do the things people on social media are doing. You just have to be authentically YOU!
Are you constantly struggling with procrastination, feeling overwhelmed, and falling behind on your goals?
Do you find yourself spending more time scrolling on social media or watching Netflix instead of getting things done?
If so, you’re not alone.
Procrastination is a common problem that affects millions of people.
Honestly, it used to affect me a lot too!
But I realized that it should not control my life.
I had to step up and take action.
Here are some strategies I’ve tried which can work for you too!
1.Understand the root of your procrastination.
Why do you procrastinate? Are you afraid of failure? Are you a perfectionist afraid of making a mistake?
Are you unsure of how to get started? Or is it that you don’t really know how to do the whole thing?
Getting to the root of your procrastination will help you address it. And then you’ll be on your way to actually doing it.
2. Break tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.
One reason people procrastinate is because a task feels overwhelming. T
The thought of completing a big project or something that’s challenging can be daunting and overwhelming.
The worst part is that it leads to avoidance and delay.
One way to overcome this is to break the task down into smaller, manageable steps. By taking on one step at a time, you’ll make progress and build momentum towards your ultimate goal.
3. Set realistic goals and deadlines.
Another common reason for procrastination is setting unrealistic goals or deadlines.
When we set unattainable targets, we’re setting ourselves up for failure and disappointment.
So the best way to address this is to set realistic goals that are challenging yet achievable. Break these goals down into smaller, more manageable steps and set deadlines for each one.
4. Create a conducive environment.
Your environment can have a significant impact on your productivity and motivation.
If you’re working in a cluttered or distracting environment, it can be challenging to focus and get things done. Create a conducive environment that supports your work, such as a clean and organized workspace or a quiet room with no distractions and absolutely no TV!
5. Use positive self-talk.
Procrastination often comes with negative self-talk, such as “I’m lazy” or “I’ll never get this done.”
Instead of berating yourself, talk to yourself in a positive way. Give yourself a pep talk to build your confidence. motivate yourself and build confidence.
Tell yourself “I can do this” or “I’m making progress” to encourage yourself and stay focused on your goals.
6. Don’t forget to take breaks and practice self-care.
Remember to take water breaks when you’re working. I can’t stress the importance of this enough. Check out my post on hydration to see how it can help you with your goals.
When you’re feeling overwhelmed or burnt out, taking a break can help you reset and recharge. Go for a walk, practice mindfulness, or do something that brings you joy and relaxation. Taking care of yourself is essential for maintaining productivity and avoiding procrastination.
In conclusion, procrastination can be a challenging hurdle to overcome, but it’s not impossible.
By understanding the root causes of procrastination and implementing these strategies, you can start to break the cycle of avoidance and achieve your goals.
Remember, it’s all about taking small, consistent steps towards your goal, and with time and effort, you’ll be able to overcome procrastination and achieve the goals you have set for yourself!
Are you a mom who spends a lot of time wondering if your daughter is strong enough to make it in the world?
Are you worried about your daughter’s lack of self-confidence or her seeming inability to get the grades you very well know she can get?
I see you, Momma!
I am a mom too and I have spent the past 23 years being an anxious mom!
I went from “Does he know which classroom to walk to?, “Will he not trip and stumble on his way there?”, “Will he be well-liked and have a lot of friends?”, “Will he make sure that he has answered each and every item in his test before he submits it?” to “Will he be able to impress his employers?”, “Will he find the right girl to marry?”, “Will he be able to provide well for his family?”
And sadly, I have spent the past 15 years thinking about all the what-if’s, wishing I did this and said that, wishing I knew then what I know now.
So believe me, I know how much you love your daughters. I understand how much you want them to thrive in every way possible.
If you’re feeling guilty, believe me, it’s that which keeps me awake at night!
Your dream of seeing them confident, resilient and unstoppable as they pursue their own dreams is my own dream too!
The thing is, the journey of self-discovery can be challenging, especially for girls who face societal pressures and self doubt.
And it can be challenging for you too, Momma, when you measure your child’s abilities solely on academic performance.
And it’s not really your fault if this is you.
It’s because of the schools who have long accepted Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences and should know better but act as if the academic awards are the most important awards.
I know that these schools will refute this claim but when you look at how the recognition program is laid out or the way graduation ceremonies are held, you will see that other awards look like minor awards, even more so today with the recent curriculum in the country.
As much as I hate to admit it (because I used to be a teacher), the school curriculum is not designed to empower each and every child in a class of thirty or more.
That’s why I’m here to tell you not to rely solely on the school curriculum for your daughter’s empowerment.
School is not enough.
She needs more opportunities to recognize her talents and her strengths. She has to know that her talents and abilities matter! And she has to receive the tools she needs to grow and develop into the strong, confident and empowered woman that she has every right to someday be!
So let’s start with what you can do at home!
Look at her unique talents and passions. As a guide, here are the different multiple intelligences according to Garner:
1.Visual-Spatial Intelligence: If your daughter is a visual learner who loves art, design, or spatial reasoning, encourage her to express herself through creative outlets like painting, drawing, crafting, or exploring the world through maps and models. Embrace her creativity and help her see the beauty in her unique perspective!
2.Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence: If your daughter is a hands-on learner who enjoys physical activities and movement, support her in exploring her athletic, dance, or acting skills. Engage in sports, yoga, dance, or other physical activities that make her feel alive. Help her see the power of her body and movement as a means of self-expression!
3.Musical Intelligence: If your daughter loves music, rhythm, and sound, encourage her to play a musical instrument, sing, dance to the beats, or create her own tunes. Let her immerse herself in the world of music and discover her own unique voice!
4.Linguistic Intelligence: If your daughter is a wordsmith who enjoys language, communication, and storytelling, empower her to write, read, speak, or engage in debates and discussions. Help her develop her communication skills and encourage her to share her thoughts and ideas with confidence and clarity!
5.Logical-Mathematical Intelligence: If your daughter is a logical thinker who enjoys problem-solving, patterns, and puzzles, support her in engaging in critical thinking, strategy games, math challenges, or scientific experiments. Encourage her analytical mind and help her see the power of her logical thinking in solving real-world problems!
6.Interpersonal Intelligence: If your daughter is a social butterfly who enjoys connecting with others, understanding emotions, and building relationships, empower her to engage in teamwork, leadership, volunteering, or social activities. Help her develop her empathy, communication, and collaboration skills, and encourage her to make a positive impact on the world!
7.Intrapersonal Intelligence: If your daughter is introspective and self-reflective, with a deep understanding of her own thoughts and emotions, support her in engaging in self-care, meditation, journaling, or personal growth activities. Help her develop self-awareness, self-compassion, and self-motivation, and encourage her to embrace her unique inner world!
8.Naturalistic Intelligence: If your daughter has a love for nature, animals, and the environment, empower her to explore the outdoors, engage in gardening, or learn about environmental conservation. Encourage her to develop a deep connection with the natural world and foster her sense of stewardship towards the planet!
By embracing your daughter’s unique talents and passions through multiple intelligences, you are providing her with a powerful toolkit for self-discovery, personal growth, and success in life. You are empowering her to thrive in her own unique way, and helping her build a strong sense of self-confidence, resilience, and purpose.
Do you ever feel like you’re searching for something but not quite sure what it is?
Do you feel like you’re merely existing but not really living?
Do you feel dissatisfied or unfulfilled with your life?
You’re not alone.
Many people struggle to find their purpose, and the journey can be overwhelming… scary even.
What if you’re really not meant for anything?
What if this is really all that there is for you?
What if you’re just not lucky?
But what if I told you that finding your purpose isn’t just a matter of luck or circumstance?
What if I told you that you can live a life that’s full of meaning and joy?
What if I told you that it’s possible to discover the path that aligns with your deepest desires and brings you true fulfillment?
You have seen many people who seem to be living happy, meaningful and fulfilling lives.
You know what? They’ve gone through what you’ve gone through.
They were not born accomplished. They were not born fulfilled.
Many of them had to go through life searching for something too, just like you are. Just like I did.
The thing is, finding meaning and purpose is a process. It’s just that for some people it’s a shorter process, for some it’s longer.
But regardless of how long the journey is, one thing is for certain. Everyone has a story. Just like superheroes.
They don’t start as heroes. They have what you call an origin story.
One female superhero who fits that description is Jessica Jones. In the Marvel Comics universe, after being exposed to radioactive material in a car accident, she gained superhuman powers. However, she struggled to come to terms with her traumatic past and to balance her personal life with her superhero duties. In the end, she finds out that there’s another way she can help people and that’s by being a private investigator.
Spiderman was bitten by a radio-active spider that changed his DNA and gave him superpowers. At first he used these powers for his own benefit but after some time, he learned the hard way that “With great power comes great responsibility.” And that was the beginning of his life as a superhero.
I remember Clark Kent in the Smallville series. He was developing all these amazing powers but he didn’t know what they were for. And they scared him! When he learned that he was from another planet he started doubting himself (despite his wonderful values) and wondered whether he was a force for good or a force for evil. And it took him a long time to finally embrace who he was and realize once and for all that he was here to build and not to destroy.
Sure, everyone I mentioned are fictional characters. But you know what? Their stories have something similar to the stories of ordinary people. They are stories of rising above adversity, and unbelievable transformation.
You want real stories of real people?
Oprah Winfrey had an abused childhood and came from a poor household. Today, she is a media mogul, a philanthropist and one of the most influential women in the world.
Manny Pacquiao came from one of the poorest families in Mindanao. He used to go to sleep hungry. He experienced sleeping on cardboard boxes. Who would have thought he would become one of the biggest names in the world of sports, a senator, or a philanthropist who would end up donating millions of U.S. dollars during the pandemic?
Even coming from being dirt-poor, Manny Pacquiao has shown time and again that he can do anything and be anything he wants to be. Through his wealth, he is able to help many poor Filipinos. And because of what he has done in his life, he now serves as an inspiration to so many of us.
So you see, ordinary people can be the hero in their own story.
You are now writing your origin story.
So take a deep breath and remind yourself that you have the power to find your purpose. Here are some steps you can take:
Step 1: Reflect on your passions and interests.
Think about what makes you happy and what you enjoy doing. What activities do you lose track of time doing? What are some things you’ve always wanted to try but haven’t had the chance to yet? Write down your answers to these questions to help you see your passions and interests more clearly.
Step 2: Identify your values.
What are the things that matter most to you? What principles do you live by? Understanding your values can help guide you in the right direction towards finding your purpose.
Step 3: Consider your strengths and skills.
What are you good at? What skills do you possess? I believe that God gave you your special talents to prepare you for the purpose of your existence. Your purpose should align with your strengths and skills to make it a fulfilling journey.
You might want to check out my post on self-esteem if you’re having a hard time thinking about what you’re good at.
Step 4: Visualize your future. Imagine yourself living a purposeful life.
What does it look like? What are you doing? Who are the people in your life? Use this visualization as a source of motivation to keep moving forward.
Step 5: Take action.
It’s not enough to just think about finding your purpose, you have to take action. Try new things, take up a hobby or enroll in a course to learn something new. Surround yourself with people who inspire you and can support you on your journey.
Remember:
Finding your purpose is a process, and it may take some time. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t find it right away. The important thing is to keep taking steps towards it, and trust that you will eventually get there.
I know it can be scary to embark on this journey, but don’t let fear hold you back. You owe it to yourself to live a purposeful life that brings you joy and fulfillment. And you owe it to your Creator to live the life that you were meant for!
You may want to read about the power of your story if you want to know more about how you can transform your life.
If you’re experiencing pain, disappointment, or failure that seems too heavy to bear…
If you’re going through a difficult time right now…
If you’re searching for meaning, purpose, and direction in your life…
I invite you to reflect on the Paschal Mystery this Easter season and discover how it can offer you hope, healing, and transformation.
The Paschal Mystery is the central mystery of the Christian faith, and it tells the story of how Jesus Christ, the Son of God, suffered, died, and rose again for the salvation of the world.
But you know what? It’s not just a historical event that happened two thousand years ago.
It’s a present reality that can touch and transform your life today.
The Paschal Mystery is a concept that is central to the Christian faith, and it can also serve as a powerful framework for our own personal growth and transformation.
In this post, we’ll explore how the Paschal Mystery can help you in your personal development journey and find your way to a brighter, more fulfilling, more meaningful future.
At the heart of the Paschal Mystery is the idea that new life can arise from death and suffering. Christ’s death on the cross was a moment of great pain and anguish, but it was also the beginning of a new chapter in salvation history. The resurrection was a moment of hope and joy, a symbol of the power of transformation that is available to all of us.
In our personal lives, we all face moments of suffering and hardship. It may be the loss of a loved one, a major setback in our career, or a personal struggle that seems insurmountable.
I have experienced the Paschal Mystery over and over in my own personal life.
I can even identify one time in my life when I actually thought I would never laugh or hum a tune again.
I walked around the house like a zombie. It was as if someone had robbed me of my life and my body was but an empty shell.
I was so depressed over the loss of my baby girl that I thought I would never regain my old self.
But I just surprised myself one day when I realized something.
Without any intention of doing it, I was humming a tune!
I realized then that things would get better.
And they did.
Healing took place.
I used to cry every day during those first few months of grief and although that grief would always stay with me, it has taken another form — something that’s life-giving and one that motivates me to live a more meaningful existence.
Giving birth to my dear Sofia Marie and losing her in less than two hours changed me in so many inconceivable ways.
The changes did not come at once nor did they come simultaneously.
They came slowly, like soft ripples.
It was during the Holy Week of 2015 when I went to have a gender ultrasound. Instead, we learned our baby had hydrops fetalis. I had very little amniotic fluid so the doctor could not even tell the gender.
I kept praying for a miracle. I spent all my waking moments praying. I kept waiting for Easter.
Easter Sunday came but I remember thinking that it did not come for me.
Easter only came several months after she went home to God.
I can’t remember exactly when it came but I think that the time I caught myself humming a tune was probably my Easter morning. That told me there was hope.
I slowly regained my self. But it was a different, better, more intentional version of my self.
In our moments of struggle and difficulty, it can be easy to feel lost, alone, and without hope. But the Paschal Mystery teaches us that even in the darkest moments, there is the potential for new life and growth.
One of the key elements of the Paschal Mystery is surrender. Christ surrendered himself to God’s will, even in the face of great suffering. For us, surrender means letting go of our own desires and plans, and trusting in a higher power.
It means accepting our own limitations and weaknesses, and allowing ourselves to be transformed.
I know that this surrender can be a difficult process, and it may involve letting go of things that are comfortable or familiar. But the reward is the potential for a transformation beyond your wildest imagination!
Just as the resurrection was a moment of hope and joy, your own surrender can lead to a sense of peace and renewal.
Another aspect of the Paschal Mystery is the idea of sacrifice. Christ’s sacrifice on the cross was the ultimate act of love, and it is a reminder of the power of selflessness. For us, sacrifice may mean putting the needs of others before our own, or making difficult choices that are in line with our values and beliefs.
Sacrifice can be challenging, and it may require us to step out of our comfort zones. But the reward is the opportunity to live a life that is meaningful and fulfilling, and to make a difference in the world around us.
This Easter, take some time to reflect on the meaning of the holiday, and consider how you can apply the lessons and message of the Paschal Mystery to your own life.
If you can look at your life and relate it to the passion, death and resurrection of Christ, you will always find hope and joy in the resurrection.
Do you ever feel like you’re stuck in a rut, living the same old story day in and day out?
Do you often feel like you’re a female character in a movie and you’re waiting for things to change so you can be this woman who turns her life around but things just stay the same no matter how long you’ve waited?
Maybe you’re unhappy with where you are in life or you’re stuck in a relationship that no longer serves you. Or maybe you feel like you’re not living to your full potential. Whatever the case may be, it’s time to start telling yourself another story.
As Tony Robbins says, “Your past does not equal your future.”
The story you’ve been telling yourself up until this point does not have to be your story forever.
You have the power to rewrite your story and create a new one that empowers you.
Yes, you can be that woman who turns her life around.
So what does “old story” mean?
Your old story is the narrative you’ve been telling yourself about who you are, what you’re capable of and what your life is like.
It’s the story you’ve been living in.
What about your “new story”?
It’s the story you choose to tell yourself going forward. It’s the story that inspires you, motivates you and empowers you to take the right steps towards the life you want to live and towards the person you want to be.
I understand that changing your story isn’t always easy. It can be daunting and overwhelming. It requires you to examine your beliefs, your thought patterns and your behaviors. It means confronting those parts of you that you don’t like and being willing to let go of that which no longer serve you.
In truth, writing a new story usually means stepping out of your comfort zone and taking a leap towards the unknown.
And that can be pretty scary.
But you know what?
It’s rewarding too! Believe me, I know!
Because when you start telling yourself a new story, you’ll notice a shift in your mindset. You will be more confident, more motivated, more resilient!
You will be empowered!
You will start seeing opportunities where you once saw obstacles.
You will have something like an uncontrollable itch to take action towards your goals.
And ultimately, you will be able to create the life you want — a life that is deeply aligned to your innermost values and desires.
So how do you change your story? How and where do you begin?
Here are a few tips to get you started:
1. Examine your old story. What narrative have you or people close to you been telling you about who you are and what your life is like? Be honest and write it down.
2. Challenge your old story. Analyze it. Is it really true? Will it be possible for you to believe in something else? What parts of your old story no longer serve you? What do you need to let go? Who do you need to let go?
3. Determine the story you want to create. What narrative do you want to tell yourself? What do you honestly want your life to look like if you had access to unlimited resources and opportunities? Write it down in detail and use the present tense.
4. Reinforce your new story. Repeat your story every day in your head. Write positive affirmations to further help you. Visualize yourself living it. Take action towards it. Practice the habits of the person you want to be.
5. Surround yourself with positive people. Who are the people in your life? Are you growing more positive because of them? Good and positive people will serve as good models for you, teach you new strategies, keep you motivated and will inspire you to keep going.
Don’t Just Write on Any Piece of Paper.
It would be a good idea to use a designated notebook for this. That way, you can keep everything together in the same place and you can also have something to look back to later on if you want to see how far you’ve grown.
I actually created and designed a beautiful journal with prompts to help you reflect on your old story and to help you create your new one. It also has quotes that will keep you inspired as you write your new story.
I can give it to you for FREE. All you have to do is subscribe to my blog and I will send it to you via email. Or if you’re in the mood to buy me coffee, you can get it at my Etsy store.
Final Thoughts
Remember, your new story does not happen overnight. It is a journey and one that is not free from obstacles, temptations and challenges. But if you’re truly committed to breaking free from your old story and creating a new one, you will just wake up one day already living in it.
Just don’t forget to ask God to bless your new story.
When I was 7 years old we moved to the city where everyone spoke a different language. The only language I was fluent in was Sambal. I knew and understood age-appropriate English words, but I had difficulty speaking and understanding long consecutive sentences and therefore could not participate in English conversations.
What was worse was it took me a long time to transliterate everything in my head whenever my teachers discussed lessons in English and that was exhausting!
When it came to Tagalog, it was hopeless. I could not understand a word of it so I could not even transliterate from Tagalog to Sambal.
To top it all off, everyone in school was already writing in cursive. I was only writing in print because students in the province only learn cursive at the age of 8.
And so I couldn’t understand my classmates, I couldn’t understand my teachers and I could not understand the cursive words on the board nor could I copy them!
I could not even communicate what I was feeling or thinking!
You can just imagine how I felt in school! I felt so small, and I assumed everyone in school thought I was stupid. And the more I felt that that’s what they thought about me, the more shy and withdrawn I became.
As my grades suffered, so did my self-esteem.
As the school year went by, my English and Tagalog communication skills improved and I learned to write in cursive the same year too. But no matter how much my skills progressed in the succeeding years, I still suffered with low self-esteem for the next 9 years.
I discovered my real power in college and I am proud to say that my self-esteem and self-confidence have grown and soared over the years. But that is another story for another day.
The point I would like to make in this post is that it’s tough to overcome low self-esteem specially if it’s rooted in experiences that happened early in life.
But it’s POSSIBLE.
If you have struggled with low self-esteem like I have, know that you’re not alone.
And remember that there are steps you can take to start building your self-esteem and self-confidence.
In this post, I’ll be sharing 10 ways to improve your self-esteem so that you can empower yourself to go after your dreams and transform your life.
These are ways that have worked for me and for many others who have had the same struggle.
So if you’re ready to start feeling better about yourself and your abilities, just continue reading.
Improve Your Self-Esteem through These Simple Strategies
1.Recognize and appreciate your strengths.
Everyone has been gifted talents, special abilities and skills. What you can do is to take time to reflect on what you do best and identify the areas in which you can make use of them for your own purpose or for the greater community. Knowing that you can contribute something of value to society will make you feel good about yourself.
You may also focus on intentionally harnessing your special talents and abilities and ensure that you’re getting better every day.
It is also good to remember that your strengths are not limited to the talents and abilities that we usually think of like writing, speaking, playing an instrument, crafting, etc.
I remember a time when I asked my students to share their strengths and there was this student who told me that she did not have any. I told her that she just needed more time to reflect or more time to discover the things she was good at. And then I proceeded to ask her, “But then don’t you find it so easy to make your classmates smile and laugh?” She nodded. “That’s one of your strengths,” I said and she beamed.
If you’re good at making people feel good about themselves, if you’re good at giving advice, making people smile, making friends, if you’re committed, persevering, loyal, loving, reliable, etc., these are all valuable strengths that you should be proud of and develop even more!
2. Identify your weaknesses.
As you pause and reflect on your strengths, find time to reflect on your weaknesses too. Identify your weaknesses and accept them. Then proceed to planning a course of action on how you can address them. Identify the ways you can improve yourself in that particular area or think about how you can turn a particular weakness into a strength instead.
3. Embrace a growth mindset.
Train your mind into believing that you can develop yourself and your abilities through hard work and dedication. There are many self-help books that you can read and blogs like The Pink Leap that you can subscribe to that can help you develop a growth mindset.
4. Practice self-care.
No matter how busy you are, take time to ensure your personal needs are met.
Ensure that you are drinking the right amount of water daily and sleep for 6 hours or longer each night to maximize its health benefits.
Wake up earlier than usual so you can exercise before you prepare for work.
A strong and healthy mind and body will allow you to absorb more knowledge, recognize opportunities, help you make good decisions, keep your spirits up, manage your anxieties, keep your skin glowing, your hair strong and shiny and your eyes clear and sparkling.
Your clothes will fit you better and you will have the energy to finish your tasks AND do the things you love.
You will look good and feel good! And you can do more good!
Imagine what this will do to your self-esteem and confidence!
And then think about your weekly or monthly schedule and see how you can incorporate the things you love doing into your weekly or monthly schedule.
Make time to do the things you love. See a movie, read a good book, craft, have lunch with a good friend.
Once you have developed your self-care routine, you’re going to realize that it’s not only keeping you healthy and sane but it’s also a lot of fun. It will also allow you to build stronger relationships with your loved ones and empower you to be the best mom, wife, daughter or friend to them.
When you’re taking good and proper care of yourself, you’re allowing yourself to become the best YOU! And that has enormous impact on your self-esteem and confidence!
It will be easy to track and achieve your goals when they are SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time-bound). So when you write down your goals, it will help if you allot at least an hour for reflection and goal setting.
Setting goals and achieving them will keep you feeling good and powerful.
6. Surround yourself with positive people.
Negative people will only bring you down and give you excuses not to pursue your goals and dreams. Avoid them at all costs. If they are family members, it’s better not to discuss your goals at length with them because they might just cause you to doubt yourself with their negativity.
Positive people, on the other hand, will inspire you, encourage you and keep you motivated. Many of them have experienced and overcome personal challenges too so you can learn a lot from them.
7. Be kind to yourself.
Be compassionate and kind to yourself. Forgive yourself when you make mistakes or when things don’t go as planned. You treat your friend nicely so why would your treatment of yourself be different? Treat yourself the way you would treat a good friend — with love, understanding and empathy.
Remind yourself that you’re doing the best you can but that sometimes there are factors that are out of your control.
8. Practice positive self-talk.
Learn to talk to yourself in a positive way. If it has been your practice to put yourself down and berate yourself, it’s time for that to change.
Remember that your negative language is destructive. Everything you tell yourself is absorbed by your subconscious and it believes everything too!
One of the best things you can do for yourself is to start talking kindly to yourself and to remind yourself of your worth and capabilities. Write positive affirmations and recite them every day. This will rewire and reprogram your subconscious to believe the best about you.
Read and absorb all the knowledge you can. Read, read and read. Learn new skills. You can do so by enrolling in a course or watching YouTube videos.
Your knowledge and skills will make you feel capable, give you a sense of achievement and empower you to create better opportunities for yourself and make a greater contribution to society.
10. Take action.
It’s time to put your fears aside and take the right steps towards your goals.
You already know what to do, all you need now is to act on these strategies so you can finally boost your self-esteem and start the process of transforming your life.
Reminders
Your self-esteem was probably profoundly affected by your life experiences through no fault of your own but it is only YOU who has the power to implement appropriate strategies so you can break free from the chains that keep you stuck in a life that is lacking in fulfillment and joy.
You can do it! Do these strategies and there will be no doubt that your low self-esteem will be turned into a healthy and truly transformative self-pride that will pave the way to unshakable self-confidence.
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Whenever I catch myself doing something great, I give myself an imaginary pat on the back and tell myself how great I am and how amazing my work is!
Some people probably think I’m too full of myself but you know what? There’s nothing wrong with giving yourself a pep talk and boosting your self-confidence every now and then.
In fact, the problem begins when you don’t talk to yourself that way.
When all you do is berate yourself for all your mistakes, flaws and imperfections, it can lead to feelings of self-doubt, anxiety and depression.
And you know what makes it worse? Whatever negative thing you tell yourself, you will be!
Your subconscious mind is like a sponge that absorbs everything you tell yourself.
Talking to yourself negatively will reinforce your limiting beliefs and programs your body to fulfill whatever information or belief you have fed your subconscious.
That’s why positive self-talk is important. When you talk to yourself positively, you are programming your subconscious mind to create positive outcomes.
Affirmations for example, are a positive tool to help you reprogram your subconscious mind, shift your mindset and achieve your goals.
In this post, we will delve into the power of affirmations and how they can help you achieve what you truly desire and we’ll also look at how to write affirmations that will support your goals.
Three Ways Affirmation Can Help You Reach Your Goals
Affirmations keep you on the right track. When you’re working towards a goal, it’s easy to get sidetracked or disheartened when things go wrong. Affirmations help you maintain a positive mindset which is essential in your journey towards your goals. When you repeat positive affirmations to yourself regularly, you start to believe in them and this will have a profound impact on your thinking patterns and beliefs. You’ll start feeling more confident, motivated and empowered. And when you are, who can stop you from reaching your goals? I doubt if anyone or anything can.
Affirmations keeps you focused on what you really want. They help you envision what you truly desire. When you repeat them regularly, they help you create a clear picture of what you want to achieve. And this will help you set more specific and achievable goals.
Affirmations help you get rid of your limiting beliefs. Your limiting beliefs are negative beliefs that have been deeply ingrained in your system through your experiences and through the messages you received from other people, specially those that have surrounded you all your life — your family, close relatives, friends, teachers, and classmates. Because they are negative ideas that have been programmed in your brain, they can hamper your growth and keep you stuck.
When you repeat affirmations regularly, these limiting beliefs are replaced by positive, empowering beliefs that will bring you closer to your goals.
How Do You Use Affirmations in Goal Setting?
1.Write specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound goals.
2.Create affirmations that support your goals and make sure that they are written in the present tense. For example, if you’re a vlogger on YouTube and you want to monetize your vlog, your affirmation can be, “I am a creative vlogger and I am able to create engaging content that attracts millions of subscribers.”
3.Repeat your affirmations regularly. Some people prefer reciting them every morning before they start their day. Aside from that, you may also want to post your list of affirmations on your mirror, at your work station or wherever you can glance at them several times a day.
If you’re interested in the morning affirmations that I use to help me keep going in my journey towards personal development, you may download the list from here.
Reminder
While it is true that affirmations are powerful and that they can help you overcome your limiting beliefs, shift your mindset, keep you motivated and ultimately help you achieve your goals, you will still need to work on yourself.
If you’re continuously working on improving the totality of your person and on improving your craft, it is easier to believe the positive affirmations you tell yourself. There wouldn’t be an inner struggle between the negative beliefs and the positive beliefs that you are replacing them with because you are very much aware that you are intentionally creating a different better version of yourself.
So as you go through your day, be intentional to the way you treat yourself. Be kind to yourself and you will be rewarded.
And if you want to learn more about personal development, please subscribe to my blog.
What would you say if I told you that keeping yourself hydrated can help you reach your goals faster?
It’s fascinating and thought-provoking, right?
You want to pass your exams? Drink water.
You want to get that promotion? Drink water.
You want to have more income? Drink water.
It sounds absurd at first.
But when you really think about what happens inside your body when you are well-hydrated, you’d be a believer like me!
I used to think of water as only something I needed to prevent the formation of kidney stones.
I never really thought about all the other amazing health benefits of drinking enough water until just a few years ago.
But first, let’s talk about what drinking enough water can do for your body. Since your body is made up of 60% water, staying hydrated is essential for maintaining bodily functions.
It can help regulate your body temperature, aid in digestion and improve blood circulation. Water also serves as a lubricant for your joints, and protects your spinal cord. It helps your body get rid of toxins and wastes through perspiration and urination.
So how does staying hydrated help you grow into your best self so you can achieve your goals faster?
1.Water is essential for efficient blood flow to your brain. That means your brain gets all the life-giving oxygen, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients it needs to function at its best.
A healthy and thriving brain can help you think clearly, make good decisions, recognize opportunities and seize them in time, manage your stress, build healthy and meaningful relationships, increase your focus and boost productivity.
Meanwhile, dehydration means your brain is not getting what it needs to thrive. Magnesium for example, is involved in over 300 chemical reactions in your body and is also responsible for mood regulation and fatigue prevention. But if you’re not drinking enough water, it means your brain is not getting enough magnesium.
Here’s the problem when you’re stressed, your body releases cortisol. Long periods of stress can cause your body to release too much cortisol which is harmful to your health and may cause your body to use up whatever magnesium that has been stored in your body.
Talk about going around in circles with things getting worse each time around.
2. Drinking water is the most affordable way to beauty.
Just imagine all those impurities and toxins flushed out at the cellular level! You will experience a skin that glows!
You won’t even have to spend thousands of dollars every month for your skin!
When your skin is well-hydrated, it becomes more elastic and moisturized. This will delay the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, making you look so much younger!
Aside from that, drinking the doctor-recommended 12 glasses of water (yes, it’s 12 glasses…8 is just the minimum) a day will help you prevent itchy skin, decrease sebum and skin breakouts, tighten skin, prevent sagging and maintain the pH balance of your skin
Don’t you think you’re going to feel more confident with beautiful glowing skin? I bet you would!
And this confidence boost will surely give you the power to do the things you’ve never imagined you could!
3. Drinking water can help you manage your weight. Do you know that there are many times when you think you’re hungry but you’re not? You’re just thirsty! And so when you’re well-hydrated you can reduce the times you feel the need to eat.
When you’re getting the required amount of water, you will also feel full and this will prevent overeating during meals.
Losing excess weight will give you the confidence you need to chase after your dreams! You won’t have to lock yourself at home just because you can’t fit in any of your clothes!
You won’t have to worry about your chronic aches and pains stopping you from doing all those things you’ve listed down in your planner!
You won’t be exhausted all the time! You will have the energy to set goals, plan and do!
DRINK YOUR WAY TO HEALTH AND ABUNDANCE
When you are generally healthy — no depression, no aches and pains, no health issues, you have the power to go out there and do whatever is necessary to fast track your growth and improve your life. There’s absolutely nothing that can stop you or derail you from getting to your desired destination.
Imagine how much your income can increase with your newfound focus and increased productivity! Imagine all the life-changing opportunities you’ll be able to see and what would happen in your life if you’re able to seize them in time.
If you can manage your stress and you’re not so moody or cranky every time, can you see what kind of relationships you’re going to have? Can you see what kind of person you can be? With less mental issues of your own, you’ll be more open-minded, understanding and considerate. You’ll be able to empathize more! And if you’re wondering about other ways to improve your mental health, you may want to improve your diet.
Imagine if you’re able to keep yourself healthy! Imagine how much you’ll be able to save with less trips to the doctor, less need for counseling and therapy, less expenses on medicines and skin treatments! No more monthly shopping for clothes just to replace the ones that don’t fit!
All those expenses can translate to thousands of dollars in the bank which you can use to fund a business, a house, college education for your kids, a long-needed vacation with your family, a comfortable retirement! The list is endless! I’m sure you can come up with more!!!
Hydration is a transformational daily habit you need to form if you’re serious about personal development and changing your life.
I understand it can be hard at first, I find it easy to forget to drink when I’m busy and when I do remember, I find the frequent trips to the toilet very inconvenient. However, I know that the benefits are well worth it so I try my best by having a tumbler filled with drinking water on my desk when I’m working.
Drinking water keeps you looking good, feeling good and doing good. What’s more is that it builds self-discipline which is something you need in all areas of your life!
By drinking enough water, you don’t only make yourself physically and mentally healthy, you’re also setting yourself up for the transformation you desire.
REMINDER:
Of course, hydration is just part of a big process called self-care. You need more than water to survive and really thrive! If you’re seeking other ways of taking good care of yourself, check out other habits you should form here.
So what are you waiting for? Grab a glass of water and subscribe to this blog for more valuable content on personal development.
The Pink Leap 