I actually train students when they make a mistake, to lift their arms in the air, smile and say, “How fascinating!” I recommend everyone try this.
Every week without fail, the first question I ask writing students is, “What have been your wins this week?” And everyone is stumped and challenged to find one win to acknowledge. By the end of our class session they have self-consciously mentioned two or three good wins they have accomplished but never stopped to give themselves credit. When I point out the wins worthy of praise, the response is, “Oh, I never thought of this as an accomplishment.” Why are we not inclined to blow our own horns? Maybe because we live in a world giving a “-1” grade on a test rather than a “+99.” In workshops I do, the process of planning your best starts with making a list of all your successful accomplishments in the past few months. This process wisely points out acknowledging and appreciating ourselves is where we get the fuel to take the next step, face the next challenge or tackle the next goal. So go ahead, take a deep breath and start now. What have you already done today that you can feel good about? Maybe you took a walk or exercised. Did you start a big project? Even something as small as letting another driver go ahead of you in traffic counts. Stop at the end of the day and tally the positives. Walk out the door with a smile on your face and a spring in your step. If you want to improve the world, start at your own doorstep. I cannot think of a better way to begin than by giving yourself credit. Giving yourself the gift of personal appreciation is the ultimate gift that keeps on giving! Use what talent you possess. The woods would be very silent if no birds sang except those singing their best.
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AuthorMusings from Gammon Irons. To desire and strive to be of some service to the world, to aim at doing something which shall really increase the happiness and welfare and virtue of mankind - this is a choice which is possible for us all; and surely a good haven to sail. Archives
February 2020
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