How do you surround yourself each day with encouraging words, messages, and actions?
I would bet, and I am not a betting woman, but for this, I would, that you have read or heard the impact of negative self-talk and negative self-criticism.
And the importance of positive self-talk.
I firmly believe it is essential to catch and halt any negative self-talk. I also strongly believe it is necessary to set boundaries with those whose communication with you causes you to question and doubt yourself or your decisions.
Today, I would like to focus on how you surround yourself each day with encouraging words, messages, and actions. And I sincerely hope the key word here for you is how, not if.
Compassionate connection is not restricted to between or within people, groups, or communities. It is a vital part of this journey we are on to unearth ourselves and discover the joy in embracing who we are. How, in whatever method, you talk to yourself can uplift, encourage, support, and strengthen you even on the most challenging of days.
Many years ago, during a business development course, I was introduced to what I considered an excellent way to motivate and encourage me in my endeavors to build my wellness coaching business. I’ve modified the messaging as I transitioned to being a full-time caregiver and now as I navigate this current life chapter.
This tool is an easy and no-cost way to gift yourself self-compassion, reminders, and guidance throughout the day. You may already be using this because most of us carry a cell phone. But, in case you do not do this, here it is:
Set encouraging word reminders as silent alarms on your cell phone throughout the day. I chose the word “reminders” because these positive messages would help you remember something about or for yourself.
My first encouraging words alarm signals at 8:02 AM and reads: May you be more and more Judy every day. After reading The Choice by Dr. Edith Eva Eger, I decided on this message.
Here are a few others of mine:
- Becoming who you were meant to be
- Grace, Courage, Compassion
- Unearth and Enjoy the Journey
- Give Thanks to the Lord Always
These encouraging words are companions throughout my day, gentle and powerful messages of support and reassurance.
The key is to pause for the few seconds to read the message before clicking the stop. This key has two parts. First is the pause, allowing a brief moment to breathe. The second is the encouraging words you’ve chosen to uplift, encourage, support, and strengthen you during your day.
Are there days when I ignore the messages? Honestly yes. But when I catch myself repeatedly ignoring them, I gently remind myself why I have them on my phone. Then, I set aside a short time to determine if these particular messages have served their purpose and if other encouraging words would benefit me better. If the latter, then I swap them out for what resonates with me now.
Mugs, quotes on cards and plaques (including those I’ve created), walks, and books are a few other ways I surround myself with encouraging words, messages, and actions.
My friend, how do you surround yourself each day with encouraging words, messages, and actions? Please comment and share, as I believe we can all learn from each other as we build our compassionate community of caregivers and nurturers. 💙
