Hold positive expectations in your mind.
The great news is, when you replace your old negative expectations with more positive ones, your brain will actually start working on how to make them a possibility for you.
Self-confidence and self-esteem are two very big topics in psychology. I think if everyone is being honest, we have all struggled in these areas at some point in our lives.
The fear of failure and fear of not being perfect, is something we have to challenge. It's a mental journey that only we can take on. We have to believe in ourselves. Think of it, if we are selling a product and we don't believe in it, how can we expect other people to believe in the product? Likewise, if we do not truly believe in our own self worth how can we expect others to believe in us?
December is such a lovely month, Christmas lights and music add to the festive season. It is also a month when reflection can occur. Believing in oneself is a choice, it is an attitude developed over time.
Christmas is not without it challenges. Visiting families can be very challenging, particularly if the family has inadvertently passed on limiting beliefs. Sadly some families can be highly judgemental. But try not let family dynamics affect the positive expectations you have created in your mind. You are the only one with access to your thoughts. Your thoughts are your thoughts, your dreams are your dreams and your belief about your self worth is safely in your charge.
Whatever your vision or your dream is, act as if it is possible. Do the things that are necessary to bring about the result, no matter where you are or who you are with. Focus your energies on what you are good at, build your self esteem and carry that through into your life.
To believe in yourself you will need to give up on the phrase ‘I can't’ or ‘I wish I were able to’. The words ‘I can't’ actually disempower you. They can make you feel weaker when you say them. Try this Christmas not to use these words, see how you get along. Our brain is designed to solve problems and achieve any goal that we give it. Let's try this one this Christmas….. no negative self -talk.
Decide what it is that you are capable of doing and would like to do. Start working toward it now. Maybe use Christmas time as an opportunity to discuss your dreams and visions with family and friends. Family and friends know you very well and hopefully will be supportive of your dreams. Putting it simply, being in the company of positive people will make you feel happy, being in the company of negative people will make you feel sad. Try this Christmas to spend most of your time in the company of positive people. It has been a very tough year for everyone. Fun, laughter, relaxation and good Christmas cheer are very much wanted by everyone around the globe. Contribute to this and make it happen while staying safe in Covid times.
Believe in yourself and the positive contribution that you can make to people you meet this Christmas. Spread all the joy, happiness and laughter that you can create. Show kindness toward elders within your family and join in the excitement with younger members.
When you firmly believe in yourself, your positivity and compassion will not depend on the environment you find yourself within, in fact it will become a magnet for others who would like to share in your joy. Be that joy!
Take care,
Regina O' Roarke.