During this time of year we spend time gathering with and enjoying our family and friends. We reflect on the happenings of the year (before it’s soon over). We are mindful of our countless blessings…and we certainly have a lot to be grateful for. But also during this time of year (and the rest of the year) are we taking the time to appreciate ourselves? Maybe that sounds like a selfish idea, and I really hope this post doesn’t come across that way. Hear me out for a minute…

I’m chatting about this today because I think we need to be more kind to ourselves. I believe we are especially hard on ourselves as the year comes to a close and we realize we accomplished absolutely nothing on our 2014 New Year’s resolution list.

By the way, don’t even get me started on the whole resolution idea. I don’t believe in them and think you can choose to go after a goal at any point during the year. 

I could go on and on about how we push the idea of positive self-esteem in our children and young adults. And I know there’s a feeling out there in the World that we tend to be self-absorbed. But personally, in general I believe many of us spend very little time focusing on how we feel about ourselves. How we can maximize our potential. How we can improve the way we feel about our inner self. How we can shift that negative thinking and self-talk we play on repeat. And I may even put myself out there a little further to say I think many of us have a warped version of who we truly are.

Anyone nodding yes in agreement?

In the hectic day to day, especially during this time of year as we’re pulled in a billion directions, it’s important to stop and appreciate yourself. Yes, you. Am I saying to go out there and blow your budget buying the new hot handbag? No. Splurge on the new “it” car and have it delivered to your driveway wrapped in a big red bow? Nope.

What I’m suggesting is something small and inexpensive – I’m suggesting you consider keeping an appreciation / success journal. Here’s mine…

$2.17 at my local office supply store.

When people hear me talk about a journal like this they tend to think it’s about writing down what they’re grateful for. There’s nothing wrong with that and if you want a gratitude journal, that’s an awesome idea! Instead, what I’m suggesting you try is keeping a journal to write down positive things about yourself, positive things people say to you, something you were proud of accomplishing – no matter how big or small, or positive self-talk quotes that motivate you.

I’ve kept a journal like this before, but lost touch with it in the day to day. What motivated me to start up again is that I’ve been kinda going through some “ehhh” stuff lately. When you’re challenged and stressed and struggling and feeling stretched, it’s so easy to get caught up in the “ehhh” and easily forget everything that is so “yes!” about yourself. Having this little journal on those low days can be a huge self-boost.

You may be wondering, what do I write down in my journal?…

I write down the little successes I have in my business and on the blog. I print comments from readers and followers, cut them out and stick them to a page with washi tape. And I write down quotes that have touched me personally or help snap me back to reality when I’m all negative and ewww with myself.

Some of you have been my biggest inspirations to keep going with the blog…a blog is hard work y’all. A whole lot of work with not a whole lot of appreciation or income. Your comments mean so much to me and I will never take them for granted. Knowing I have helped you in a small way – means everything! Makes it all worth it.

 

I keep my journal tucked away right here under the computer in my home office…

Some of my quietest moments are captured (and savored) sitting here at my desk…because when I’m sitting here I’m usually home alone. It makes sense to keep mine here. Keep your journal somewhere you know you’ll be able to take a moment to note down something positive about yourself.

This quote is one of my favorites…

Because it’s true. What really matters is relationships and experiences. Not the “stuff”.

I hope you’ll consider starting an appreciation journal and be a little more kind to you. You are worth it!