Finding things to criticize about myself has been an easy exercise for as long as I can remember. I rely on others to offer encouraging compliments and then brush them off as being undeserved. Suddenly, it hit me. How can I possibly expect anyone to have something positive to say about me, when I had nothing good to say about myself? In an effort to change that, I’ve listed the top five things I like about yours truly.
I can’t hold a grudge. Maybe I shouldn’t advertise that…. But the fact of the matter is, I can’t stay angry with anyone. I’ve been that way my entire life. I can be insulted, lied to, stood up, you name it … and as long as the act of treachery is followed by kind words I’m willing to move past it. For the longest time I saw this as a weakness, something I even tried to change. I realize now it’s an advantage. Holding on to negativity only hurts one person, and I get to live my life free of that.
I’m a speed reader. I may not have a photographic memory but I’m able to fly through quite a bit of content in a short amount of time and retain what I need to. This skill has saved my butt more times than I care to count, especially given the fact that I’m a known procrastinator.
I have a deep sense of empathy. I make it my mission to understand where someone is coming from and I pray the day never comes when I don’t stop to put myself in someone else’s shoes. We’re here to help each other, not judge. If everyone could practice a little more empathy, I think the world would be a far better place.
The whole world is my dance floor – literally. There’s no holding back when I hear a song I like (and there are plenty). No space is off limits. The car, the street, the coffee table (depending on my blood alcohol content) the treadmill… which I don’t really recommend doing if you’re as uncoordinated as I am. Don’t get me wrong. I don’t think I’m a great dancer. The reason I like that about myself has nothing to do with the level of skill I possess, or lack thereof. What I like is that I’ve taken the motto, “Dance like nobody is watching” and turned it into, “Dance like EVERYONE is watching and you just don’t give a shit”.
I can admit when I’m wrong. I am well aware that I make mistakes. I’ve been making them for 30 years and I’m doubtful that I’ll be stopping anytime soon. I can, however, take ownership of my wrongs. I won’t say something overly sentimental like, “every mistake is a learning experience” though many are. Some mistakes are JUST MISTAKES. The important part is that we admit them and move on!
Now.. it’s YOUR turn to make a list. I bet when you give it some thought you’ll find a whole lot more than five reasons why you’re pretty damn awesome… and the next time you find yourself in the midst of a pity party, pull that list out and remind yourself of who you really are.
The Zuf Truth 