Discovering Your Self-Worth Despite Challenging Circumstances
Does life seem to be a struggle for you? Do you feel overwhelmed and frustrated much of the time? Do you wish you could experience something better? Fortunately, you can enjoy the exciting life you deserve. Success is available to you despite challenging circumstances. It's important to remember, also, that your self-worth is not defined by your circumstances. What holds you back? Take some time today to question the beliefs you hold that limit your potential. If you look at a challenging circumstance as a wall that's impossible to climb, you need a fresh perspective. Within you is everything you need to thrive and excel. The more you question the validity of your limiting beliefs, the more success you'll experience in your life. Think of a circumstance in your life that you believe is preventing you from doing something you want. Write it down, then get ready to challenge that limiting belief. If you do, you'll begin to move toward the success you deserve. Use these strategies to maintain positive self-worth, regardless of your circumstances: 1. Find the cause. What is the cause of the circumstance in your life? Sometimes, limiting beliefs can serve as warning signs that help you avoid danger. What can you learn from this, so you avoid triggering a comparable situation in the future? * If the cause of your situation is unclear, ask friends and family for their input. Others see your life from a unique perspective, and their input can be valuable in determining the root of your difficulty. 2. Get past the blame game. You can often be your own worst critic. Fortunately, negative self-talk often has extraordinarily little basis. Choose to replace the doubts of your inner critic with more productive thinking. * Once a negative thought has taught you its intended lesson, it has served its purpose. If you choose to hold onto those negative thoughts, they will begin to form a negative self-image in your mind. This unbalanced view of your talents and strengths holds you back. * Instead of dwelling on negative thoughts about your circumstances, learn the lesson and resolve to move on. Find out what you can do differently to avoid a repeat of your present situation. Then, when negative thoughts enter your mind, choose to replace your self-talk with productive thoughts instead. 3. Cut yourself some slack. Recognize that you're human. Everyone makes mistakes, but your attitude determines your attitude in life. You are valuable regardless of your present predicament. You are worthwhile even when you slip up or falter. Your circumstances simply provide feedback and an opportunity to learn and grow. 4. Make the most of it. When you recognize that you are valuable despite your circumstances, you will begin to make the most of every opportunity. Obstacles you face can become stepping stones to the success you desire and deserve, simply by changing what you focus on.some once said: “A setback is a setup for a comeback”. * Instead of feeling helpless, ask yourself: "What's the possible good in this situation?" Every situation provides something of value if you take a good investigative look at it. 5. Ask for help. (be careful with this one) Loved ones and friends often see strengths in you that go without notice. Ask them what they believe your strengths are. This is where your self-worth is found. There have to be one or two friends who have something of value to contribute, if not you need to surround yourself with a different group of people * Once you recognize your unique talents, gifts, and abilities, you will see life in a whole new way. You will seek opportunities to use your talents to bless others. You will gain confidence that comes from conquering challenges that once made you cringe. * Instead of allowing your circumstances to dictate who you are, you will make the rules! 6. Live one day at a time. Despite your best efforts, some days simply provide one frustration after another. When this happens, you have a choice. You can let your circumstances defeat you, or you can choose a more positive perspective. Resolve today to find your strengths, learn from your difficult circumstances, and experience the joy you were created to experience. Instead of tying your self-worth to your circumstances, choose to see things as they are. You were created with unique talents and gifts. When you find those gifts within yourself and put them to use, you will know how valuable you truly are.
To your success,
William J. McClelland CLC, CNC, MPNLP
Disclaimer: Please understand that the content of this article is not meant to replace the advice of a licensed physician. The information provided here is intended as educational material only and should never be interpreted as medical advice. If you feel your condition is a medical emergency, please immediately contact your physician or mental healthcare professional.
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