Make a list of three of your strengths. These can be specific (such as, “I am good at chess”) or broad (such as, “I am courageous”). Include at least one specific and one broad example on your list. Stop and appreciate these parts of yourself. Say out loud, “I like that I am courageous. ” Brainstorm one way to further develop each of these strengths. If you listed “I am good at chess,” consider entering a chess tournament. If you listed “I am courageous,” perhaps go white water rafting.
Write a letter confessing your secret. Explain everything you feel guilty about in vivid detail. Destroy the letter. Send it into the ocean or burn it. Say to yourself, “I put my guilt in the past. ” Repeat this ritual as many times as you need to.
Set specific times when you don’t work. Give yourself permission to relax during these moments. Work out. Get those endorphins pumping! When you do make it to the gym, thank yourself for showing up. Get enough sleep. Don’t sacrifice this essential human need. Plenty of sleep will help you stay physically and emotionally strong.
I am a good writer. I am a strong person. I love you, ____ (fill in your name).
What type of music do you like? What sorts of food do you enjoy? Which colors appeal to you? What types of clothing do you like?
Put together an outfit like the one you saw in the magazine. Download some new music from an artist you like. Order some food from a restaurant you love. Try to do at least one thing every day that is uniquely you.
Travel someplace new. Try a fashion, food, or music that you’ve never tried before. Try to do something once a week that is new.
Keep a journal. Go dancing. Make a collage. Do this once or twice a week.
Attend a meeting or organize a gathering where your friends can come together and receive support. Do this at least once a month.
Compliment the cashier’s jacket. Give up your seat on the bus. Volunteer your time at a soup kitchen. Kind gestures can be small or large.
Think about a physical attribute that you like. Do you have great hair? Think about an aspect of your personality. Are you good at school? Think about a person in your life. Are you close with your mom?
