Today did not get off to a good start. I didn’t feel like getting out of bed. I weighed myself, only to discover that I’ve magically gained 3 pounds overnight thanks to the magic of PMS. (Yes, I know that it’s water weight; no, that doesn’t make me feel better.) My face is broken out due to the aforementioned hormonal roller coaster. My Garmin’s batteries died while I was running, so I have no idea if I maintained my target pace. Nothing in my closet was acceptable. And to top it all off, I accidentally drove in the exit of the parking garage at work and got reprimanded by security. (I work at a secure government facility and you wouldn’t BELIEVE how uptight they are.)

Sigh.

But rather than brood about my pissy mood, teenage complexion, and bloated tummy, I decided to be kind to myself. For once. I started thinking about it–what would make me feel better about myself right now? And I came up with this list of quick self-esteem boosters.

1. Accomplish something. Pick a small task, get it done, and then congratulate yourself. Good job, Jen! You already cleared your inbox!
2. Name three things you like about yourself. Do this quickly, off the top of your head–don’t give your pesky Inner Critic a chance to question your choices. (1) I make my husband smile. (2) I’m totally committed to my marathon training. (3) My arms are looking pretty toned since I’ve been hitting the gym!
3. Obey the signs. Use this tip from Leslie and put a sticker or a sticky note on your computer screen (if you’re a desk jockey like me, that is) that says something like “Hello, cutie!” or “You’re beautiful!” or “Great job!”. Corny, yes. Effective, double yes.
4. Do a good deed. Hold the elevator for someone. Pay the toll for the guy behind you. Give money or food to a homeless person. Do something nice for someone else and then take a moment to feel good about yourself.
5. Practice forgiveness. If you’ve done something wrong or made a mistake and you can’t stop thinking about it, make a conscious effort to forgive yourself. Take a moment to yourself, allow the scene to replay one final time, and then say (out loud is best) I FORGIVE YOU. Then let it go.
6. Hit on yourself. OK, this sounds silly, but I have a friend who does it and it really does boost your mood. Every time you look in a mirror today, say a cheesy pick-up line to yourself. “How you doin’? (a la Joey from Friends) or “Lookin’ good!” or “Hey there, hot stuff!” Don’t knock it ’til you’ve tried it…
7. Treat yourself. Get a manicure. Have a fancy cocktail or a decadent cup of hot chocolate. Get a massage. Take a bubble bath. Do something that makes you feel good!
8. Work some magic. Use your magic wand to turn your weaknesses into secret strengths. Got a short attention-span? You’re a multi-tasker. Tend to be shy? You’re interesting and mysterious.

I intend to use ALL OF THEM at some point during the day. Got any others for me?

Tags: self-esteem

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