We’re a self-deprecating generation.
If we ever get praise we instantly reply with ‘yeah I did okay I suppose’. We try to belittle the achievement, like its not ‘that’ good or ‘that’ important. Even if its taken years to accomplish, we always think maybe next time, I’ll do it better. I’m definitely not the type of person to say YEAH I DID BLOODY GREAT AND I’M PROUD, *high five me girl*
Putting ourselves down is our favourite past-time. And not only does the lack of confidence take it’s toll on our mental health, it’s also basically telling people that they have the wrong opinion of us, especially if its a positive one. That we don’t deserve their kind words.
It definitely feels a bit American to be your own cheerleader, but if we aren’t, who the heck is going to be?
Whether it’s giving yourself credit for coming back to life after a really bad time, or that you managed to squeeze in an extra gym session when all you wanted to do was get home and watch Gilmore Girls, make sure you reward your efforts and that they do not go unnoticed. I find treating myself to a bit of chocolate (the books say you shouldn’t reward yourself with food, but alas I do not care) or having a pamper night, it makes you feel so good and keeps you on the whole positive mind-track thing.
Even if its a Friday night and you’ve been dealing with a shitty colleague all week, give yourself praise for keeping your head high, sometimes it can feel like such a hard thing to do.
I’m starting to believe the kinder we are to ourselves, and the more credit we can give us, the more likely we are to keep on doing good things for others too. Which in reality, isn’t that what this whole life thang is about?
Do you find it hard to give yourself praise?