Being Forgiving to Thyself (oneself) 🍂

The past two and a half years have been a whirlwind of personal and professional challenges. From navigating new environments to understanding myself better, the journey has been as rewarding as it has been demanding. Adapting to new people, places, and experiences, we grow amidst them!

Despite my general aversion to change, I've come to recognize its benefits. Let's be honest, not many of us greet change with open arms, exclaiming, "This is exciting! I have no idea what I'm doing, but it's fun! 😏". Yet, embracing the uncomfortable has consistently proven beneficial in the longer run.

Reflecting on these past years, I can't help but acknowledge the mixed emotions. Some changes have been welcomed, others less so, leaving me dissatisfied with certain aspects of my life. It's natural to have things we're unhappy about.

Enter the alter ego 😈 – that inner voice constantly comparing the present to the seemingly better past. This negative self-talk has been a persistent barrier, convincing me that efforts to improve are futile. Consequently, I found myself stuck, unable to take meaningful steps towards change.

This vicious cycle didn't just hinder saving enough money or reading enough books; it started affecting my self-esteem and confidence. Motivational quotes and pep talks fell flat against it all.

However, a crucial realization dawned on me: in these thousand days, I have evolved. Preferences shift, choices transform, and we become different versions of ourselves. It's senseless to measure today's progress against the person I was two years ago.

Shifting the Self-Talk

1. Missed a Savings Goal? It's okay, let's try again next month.

2. Skipped a Workout? No worries, give it another go tomorrow.

3. Couldn't Finish a Book? Take it slow and start anew.

This more forgiving self-talk aims to cultivate an optimistic mindset. While I'm still testing this approach, I believe it could make a difference.

Ultimately, our minds wield immense power over our lives. Perhaps a bit of self-compassion can pave the way for lasting change. Only time will tell.

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