I don’t know who the quote is from but I found it compelling. “Instead of expecting love from someone else, try loving Yourself Authentically, Unconditionally and most importantly, Profoundly. The way you love or treat yourself dictates or defines how others are to treat you. If they refuse to do so, please do not degrade your own self worth to their flawed standards. Instead, pity them that they had every opportunity to respect you but choose to not know you for the wonderful person that you are.” Isn’t that great? I have caught myself on more than one occasion beating myself up because I feel I am not smart enough, not good enough or, quite frankly, just enough.
I truly believe we all have the ability to be great. But what exactly defines greatness? I looked up the definition for greatness and this is what it said: “The quality of being great, distinguished, or eminent.” Great? That means: “Of an extent, amount, or intensity considerably above the normal or average.” Distinguished? “successful, authoritative, and commanding great respect.” What exactly is eminent? “Used to emphasize the presence of a positive quality.” What kind of person are you? Are you a glass-half-full or glass-half-empty person? How we view life, especially our own life, determines how others see us and treat us. Greatness does not necessarily mean power, money, fame, better than or the best. Greatness, broken down, simply means above average positivity. When others ask you how you are doing, do you answer with, great! Or do you give an Eeyore response? (Winnie the Pooh cartoon reference).
I am not suggesting we all go around with over inflated egos thinking we are the best. What I am suggesting is that we need to be real. Finding the positive in life and circumstances can oftentimes be difficult. When our everyday challenges creep up, you have the choice of how you react. If you practice positivity every day, eventually you will find it comes easier and more natural. Unfortunately, as the quote above also states: There will always be that person who will not respect you or really get to know you and will form their own opinion of you. When this happens, you have two choices. Choose to believe they are right and degrade yourself. Or, do a self-check to determine if you acted and responded in a positive and correct manner. If your answer is yes, then move on. If you answer is no or you are unsure, own up to your part and correct your action, reaction and make an intentional decision to work on that behaviour.
I don’t have all the answers nor am I perfect. I truly hope someone reading this needs to hear this today. You are worthy. You are worthwhile. You are unique. Keep moving forward! If you are in a toxic relationship I hope and pray you can get the support and help you need. This post is not meant to demean or belittle your situation in any way. I know, firsthand, what toxic relationships can do to oneself. Please reach out to someone you trust to assist you with your circumstances.
