11 May 2021 – Sometimes, it is hard to see ourselves in a positive light. Why is it so easy to see all of our bad qualities but difficult to find things we like about ourselves? People sometimes find me judgmental because of the standards I set. However, those high standards are only for me, not for others. I can easily find things I like about other people, and it will take many negatives to overcome these positives. Unfortunately, just one negative thought about myself tends to cancel all of the positives ones.

Things I don’t like about myself:

So today, I will focus on five things I like about myself.

I am hardworking. Give me any task, and I will not only accomplish it, but I will do it with everything I have in the best way possible. I value hard work, timeliness and excellence, and I refuse to do anything at less than the highest level. I also don’t usually procrastinate. Given my tendency to always expect the worst, I try to accomplish things as soon as possible for fear that something might happen to get in the way of completion. Anything less than my best won’t suffice. I require top-notch work in all I do. Hardworking, on time (if not early) excellence – that is something I really like about myself. One of five things.

I am a good mom. Meghan and Shelby have always been loving, caring daughters. They even enjoy spending time with me. We have developed a deep bond where we can be honest about the craziness, the annoyances and the celebrations. Of course, being a good mom isn’t about them liking me. It’s about them thriving. They have each made their own place in this world and are succeeding in life. Meg and Shel are capable of anything. Most importantly, they care about other people and are truly empathetic, kind souls. I can’t take all of the credit, but I am honored that they were entrusted to my care during their formative years, and I didn’t mess it up. I’m a good mom, and that is something I really like about myself. Two of five things.

I am a loving daughter. There have been many times when I have been less than a great daughter. I have lied at times, argued with them and said things to my parents that I shouldn’t have. Fortunately, my parents showed me love and grace in my bad times. Once I had children, I really understood what a great blessing my parents are. I have been so lucky to have parents that love me and cherish me. My goal is for my parents always to know how much they are loved. I would do anything for my parents, and my only wish is that they know they are loved. When I am not with them to show them and tell them, I am sure they know. I’m a loving daughter, and that is something I really like about myself. Three of five things.

I am generous. Generosity is easy for me. There is nothing that gives me more pleasure than giving to others. It doesn’t matter if it’s giving my time, my talents or material things. I want others to feel loved and cared for more than anything, even if it makes me too generous. Someone told me that I would succeed at anything, but I would never be rich because I would give it all away. He may be right. I don’t need much, and I am willing to share and even give away everything I do have. I’m generous, and that is something I really like about myself. Four of five things.

I am kind. I never want anyone to feel marginalized or left out. It hard when others hurt you or make you feel less. My goal is to show everyone I meet true kindness. It’s so easy to be nice. It costs nothing to be kind. I will never understand why people are not kind to others. As someone who has experienced hate, loss, disappointment and pain due to the actions of others, I will always do my best to be kind to others. I am kind and that is something I really like about myself. Five of five things.

Unfortunately, the things I don’t like about myself are still greater than the things I like. Fortunately, these five things are pretty positive. I just need to remind myself of the things I like more often.