Like many, my confidence doesn’t come naturally; it’s a skill that I have to cultivate. Throughout my life, I’ve struggled to find my voice in a world of noise. I have also constantly battled with negative self-talk. I’ve always had extremely high expectations for myself.
Depending on the stage of life, my negative self-talk has been anything from my role as a mom, a wife, a friend, a daughter, a sister, and especially in the success of my career. We all have that voice in our head, the constant narrative. I might not be able to eradicate the habit of negative self-talk, but I am striving for a more positive and self-assured presence through better self-care. As I reflect on my journey through life, I can’t help but think about the opportunities that were not available to me as a young girl.
Last month, I had the chance to sit down with the Executive Director of Girls on the Run, Worcester County. We talked about their awe-inspiring program. This innovative initiative aims to empower young girls by fostering their physical, emotional, and social well-being.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Girls on the Run program is its emphasis on holistic development. It goes beyond just physical fitness, addressing the emotional and social aspects of growing up. Through a carefully curated curriculum, girls are guided through lessons on self-esteem, body image, positive communication, and teamwork. Lessons that are all the building blocks of self-confidence and resilience that last a lifetime.
I can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the positive impact I believe the GOTR program will have on the next generation. Its lessons on self-worth and resilience are invaluable for women of all ages. Many women, including myself, could have benefited from this message earlier in life.
By embracing the principles of self-worth and resilience, I am prioritizing my well-being while also caring for my family and pursuing my dreams. All women need to remember to celebrate our strengths, practice daily self-care, and quiet the negative voice in our heads. This will ultimately lead to a healthier self-image and improved mental health. This is a journey that will always be evolving.
Below are my newly inspired self-care practices that I have put in places to empower confidence in myself:
Daily Positive Affirmations: I start my day by looking in the mirror and saying positive affirmations to myself.
Gratitude Journaling: I am setting aside a few minutes each day to write down three things I am grateful for.
Regular Exercise: I take my dog Rocky on daily hikes. I am also adding yoga to my routine which is just for me.
Practicing Self-Compassion: When I face a setback or mistake, I talk to myself just as I would talk to a friend.
