This is cross-posted in Steps to Better Self-Esteem and in Goal Setting forums.
I would like feedback on this approach (here is a
link to a FB post). It definitely helps me; I wonder if it can assist others as well.
***
You probably have happened on suggestions to treat yourself as your own good friend. "If this question were asked by a friend of yours, what would you say?"; "How would you help a close friend of yours if he or she were in this dire situation?" This is all great advice: it aims at eliminating negativity, rumination, excessive and unproductive feelings of guilt and shame, unending self-criticism, and the like. How about we extend this approach and treat ourselves as our own most valuable employees:
- moody, but talented;
- sometimes unpredictable, but uniquely able;
- creative and dedicated, but requiring help in organizing efficient processes and getting through tasks?
What kind of a self-manager would you strive to be? Think of this from the standpoint of end results:
- would you berate your most valuable and irreplaceable employee or would you give her the help and resources she needs?
- would you offer praise and CONSTRUCTIVE criticism or would you nag nag nag and nag yet more?
- would you promote your employee and give him public recognition or would you shame and belittle him, both privately and in front of others?
Even if you cannot presently think of yourself as your BEST employee, you have to concede that you are your own most IRREPLACEABLE human resource. So, treat yourself with appreciation!