I release negative self-talk and do not seek validation from others.
This week's affirmation reminds us that we have to learn how to trust ourselves and embrace the confidence we have within. In our desire for validation and approval outside of ourselves, we start to doubt our decisions. When we begin to doubt ourselves we risk destroying self trust and create a space where it becomes easy to turn away things we deserve or desire. Obviously, it's important to have a set of trusted friends who can help share their wisdom from time to time- as social creatures we're really not meant to do it alone. But when searching for approval, it's important to first look within.
Negative self-talk is a really practical way we develop distrust with ourselves and our decisions. How many times have we made a choice and spent the rest of the day second guessing ourselves or even berating ourselves for that choice?
"God, I'm such an idiot, why did I make that mistake at work."
"I'm not good enough, why should I even apply for that job, they'd never hire me anyway."
"There's no way I can be 40 and go back to school, I'm too old for that."
"I can't do that new thing I've always wanted to try- I'll look like a ridiculous when I fail."
Reading those- they probably sound ridiculous. And if we had a friend saying those things we would absolutely tell them they were wrong and who cares! So how about we start treating ourselves as a friend?
"I'm human and I'm doing the best I can, I'm not an idiot for making mistakes."
"I'll let them tell me no- I have amazing qualifications and I'd make an excellent candidate."
"I might be the "oldest" person in the room, and it might be hard to go back to school after all this time, but I know I can do it. I have the wisdom to know how to get it done."
"Everyone looks a little silly trying new things, but I'm not the first to try something new and not succeed. I'll keep trying because I'm having fun."
This Week's Meditation
Find a room or space you feel comfortable in. You can be seated or laying down.
Breathe in.
Breathe out.
What's that big leap of faith you've wanted to take lately (and just because it's not "big" doesn't mean it's not big to you)? Picture yourself making that move.
Breathe in.
Breathe out.
Now, what words of encouragement can you give yourself? (Loving, brave, kind, authentic, joyful)
Breathe in.
Breathe out.
Think back to that leap of faith. Who comes to mind when you think of taking action? Separate the trusted friends from those that fill you with fear. Release the need for validation and approval from those who simply don't matter.
Breathe in.
Breathe out.
Allow yourself to come back to your present space. Notice any sensations that come up as you become more aware of yourself. Repeat our affirmation: "I release negative-self talk and the need for outside validation."
-Chris
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