One of the toughest times to appreciate who we are comes in the midst of life taking a turn for the unexpected.  Whether it’s losing your job, relocating, financial loss, a dream lost, or a business that doesn’t turn out the way you think it should.  All of us hold dreams and visions for ourselves and sometimes what happens in life doesn’t match our expectations.  That’s okay.  Just recognize these trying times might test your ability to see your own worth.  You might find yourself grieving, feeling angry, depressed, or even lost.  But, this turn in life, doesn’t have to be a negative, it might just be the best thing to help you really get in touch with you are and what gifts you are meant to give.  If you’re finding you’re having a hard time appreciating who you are, take these tips to heart to help you see all the good inside you. 

Maintain a High Level of Self Care

During times of stress, for most of us self care is the first thing to go.  Make it a priority.  Write down 3 things you know make you operate better and make you feel good.  For me, I know I need to go on a walk almost every day and attend a yoga class at least once a week.  Look at a typical week, how well do you think you take care of these top 3 needs?  Where can you improve?  Schedule your top 3 self care items first and commit to them. 

 Make Time to Be Still

Reconnecting with ourselves requires moments of stillness.  When we feel lost or uncomfortable it’s easy to run from those feelings, or fill the void with noise and busyness.  Find at least 10 minutes a day you can be still.  Make it personal to you.  What’s your favorite way?  To mediate, pray, sit in nature, or journal? 

 Rewrite Your Story

What is the story that is replaying in your head about yourself or this situation?  We’ve all done it to ourselves.   It’s the comments like, “I’ll never be married” or “I’ll never find a new job” or “I’m not as good as my fraternity brother…look how much money he’s making now”.  Take a step back from your story.  Write down an uncensored version of everything you’ve said to yourself about you, and this situation.  If it is coming from a place of fear or negativity, try to think about a new way to approach it.  For example, if you just lost your job, instead of thinking you’re a horrible worker or you’ll never find work, your new story might say something like “I’ve always wanted to try x…or I know I have a lot of value to add”, or “this will give me a chance to explore things I never thought I would”.  Once you’ve re-written your story, post in a place that will remind you of a new way to look at and talk about your situation. 

 Ask Others for Support

Having loving unconditional support around us is so important, especially during times of change and transition.  Decide how you need to be supported.  Do you need to spend time with friends?  Do you need someone to talk to?  Do you need someone to offer input?  Once you figure out how you can best be supported, ask for it.  Your friends won’t be able to read your mind. 

Stay steady and don’t give up.  Depending on what transition your facing, this can take time to adjust and feel on top again.  Be patient with yourself and try to keep looking for the good inside you.  It’s there and it’s ready to be seen.

As we kick off this month’s topic: BreakThrough in Appreciating Who You Are - I can’t think of a better way to begin than by having a wonderful and relaxing holiday.

Traditionally in the US, this annual holiday is usually celebrated by enjoying a day free from work and school. However, as you celebrate this weekend, take a moment to appreciate not only the work you do every day but also the reasons why you work in the first place.

For most of us, we work so diligently at our work, that, from time to time, we need a gentle reminder as to the reasons why we get up out of our comfy beds each morning. So, while you enjoy a respite from the daily grind, take some time to appreciate who you are.

Historically, this holiday was won by laborers in the 1800′s whose habit it was to share their breakfasts and lunches. They worked long hours in horrible conditions to create the civilized conditions we enjoy today. Now, I can hear you all saying to yourselves, “Is he crazy? Obviously, he has no idea about the conditions within which I live and work!” And, you’re right, I don’t. However, you do. And, for those very reasons, don’t you think you a moment to appreciate yourself is in order? I do!

This year, we’ve experienced “a series of unfortunate events” that would make even the Baudelair orphans smile at their great fortune. No sooner than we recover from one major tragedy, another one strikes. The key, according to the law of attraction, is to focus on what you want; not on what you don’t want.

I recognize that this can be extremely difficult when every network television channel seems committed to shout to you how terrible it all is. Just because they’re saying it doesn’t mean that it’s true, does it? Your life, peace of mind, and sanity begins by fully appreciating all that you are.

So…breathe it in! At least for today. Happy Labor Day!

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