There is one thing every self-made, successful person I’ve ever met has in common. It’s self-confidence. Maybe they started with it. Maybe their confidence grew as they accomplished more and more. They certainly possess it.
Sorry, this isn’t an article about taking a relaxing bubble bath to nurture yourself. Or getting a massage. There aren’t enough bubbles and hot water in the world to make up for crushing a lack of self-confidence. This article is about ways to nurture your self-esteem and confidence so you feel more comfortable in your own skin. That’s better than any expensive moisturizer you can buy.
I have always found human behavior fascinating. Perhaps I should have been a psychologist. Amazed by human behavior, differences between men and women, why women have challenges with marketing and selling, and the intriguing diversity between cultures around the world, I love learning about what makes people tick.
A large percentage of women suffer from a lack of self-confidence. They spend a lifetime feeling “not good enough.” We can blame it on abusive men or parents. But that puts women in a victim role which is a trap. Positive change and developing healthy self-confidence is impossible from a victim point of view.
As a result women spend a lifetime nurturing others while neglecting themselves in an effort to feel better. It’s a breeze building up others and telling them how fabulous they are. We effortlessly support, encourage, motivate and say, “You go, girl!”
But will you say supportive, encouraging, nurturing words for yourself? Or, instead do you utter harsh words about your “failings” under your breath and shrug, “I’m just being honest.”
It is not true. We all have gifts to share. We have all experienced triumph and tragedy. Chances are you have learned more from your failures than from your successes. What do you have to share that can help others? How are you different or unique?
I encourage you to sit down and create five short lists. Answer one question on each list:
• What do I like about me?
• What do others like about me?
• What do I do well?
• What do I enjoy doing most?
• What positive characteristics do people see in me?
Write through the eyes of your best friend. Write through the heart and soul of someone who loves you exactly as you are. Write until you can think of nothing more to add. Then write down two more items before moving on to the next list. Take a couple deep breaths. Honor and nurture yourself by doing this exercise.
Write. Are you:
• Excited about life?
• Outgoing? People love positive-minded people.
• Compassionate are caring?
• A good listener and friend?
• Do you possess the gift of making others feel special?
By writing down the answers to these five questions you will start seeing yourself differently. When you push yourself to come up with a couple more responses, you will discover amazing things about yourself. You are worthy. It’s time to exude the kind of confidence that will move mountains and help you make your dreams come true.
Denise Michaels is author of the business bestseller, “Testosterone-Free Marketing” sold in 15 countries. Known as a marketing and personal growth maven, she’s also the founder of “Empower U Academy” at http://www.EmpowerUAcademy.com where you can get her amazing audio downloadable learning, including Unstoppable Confidence and How to Make Customers Happily say YES! Her blog, Your Excellent Adventure is at http://www.DeniseMichaels.com
Article Source: The Importance of Nurturing the Self
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