Earlier this month I was shopping and quickly glanced across the department store counter at another customer. My initial thought was “I like her look.” When I looked back up to get a second glance at her look, I was amazed to realize the quick glance was into a column mirror and that look I liked – it belonged to me.
This is not a normal moment for me. I can typically easily provide a list of what I wish I could improve. However, at that moment I was not looking at myself with the critical eye of my bathroom magnifying mirror but from the eyes of an observer. Yes, that woman had a good look and that woman was me!
As part of Emily’s 12 Months of Bliss Challenge, the November focus was to focus upon positive self talk and positive self reflection throughout the month. Beginning the month with the above mentioned event was exactly what I needed to begin my focus.
A few months ago, I shared this quote:
And if I asked you to name all of the things that you love, how long would it be before you named yourself?”
I wasn’t that completely stunned at the response I received from readers. Most stated that they wouldn’t be on the list or they would be an after thought. For years I have provided the love/like list journal activity to my clients where they create a list of 100 things that they like. I have never had a client put herself on the list. To be honest, I’ve completed the activity multiple times and have never placed myself on the list.
In addition to focusing upon self talk, the November challenge encouraged everyone to write a love letter. Although I did not write a complete love letter, I have written several thank you letters to my body. I weekly work with individuals who have been diagnosed with chronic and often terminal illness. This work, in addition to my own health history, makes me very aware of the blessing I am given each day when I am able to get out of bed without assistance, eat without problems and take the six flights of stairs to my office at the hospital.
This month has helped me to remember there are many things that I have learned to love about myself and equally as many things that I am thankful for each day. This particular challenge of the 12 Months of Bliss Challenge is one that I feel everyone should participate in. The only way that anyone can change thoughts is to become aware of what they are and begin to make changes. As with each of the past challenges, this has encouraged growth and self reflection. I hope you will join with Emily for the remainder of 12 Months of Bliss.
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