The first step toward change is awareness. The second step is acceptance. – Nathaniel Braden

We generally change ourselves for one of two reasons: inspiration or desperation. – Jim Rohn

I think one of the most difficult concepts for people to comprehend is that before you can change, you must accept where you are first. Many people think that the acceptance of something they do not want means that the unwanted thing stays. But, actually, the opposite is the truth.

When we choose not to accept something we don’t like about ourselves, it actually focuses our minds more on the very thing we don’t like. We fret about. We worry about it. We judge ourselves. We feel self conscious. We feel guilty and etc. All of this negative attention prevents us from making the change we so desperately want.

That’s where acceptance comes in. To start the process of change, you must accept where you are or accept the very thing you want to change. For example, use words like “I have this thing I don’t like, but it’s not permanent. It doesn’t define who I really am. It’s helped me understand what I truly desire. It has made me stronger. Etc.”

It’s important that when you are trying to accept something you don’t like about yourself that you use words that are believable. If you don’t, then the acceptance you are looking for will not come or will be much harder.

Once you accept, change becomes easier. Your mind is then freed from the confines of dislike and non-acceptance which allows your creativity and drive to help you change.

Remember, be easy on yourself.

Michael

Everyone and I mean everyone seemed to be out. I think we were all a little stir crazy up here. The beaches were packed and the roads were clogged with people going to the ocean.

The theme for me was relaxation. We typically don’t spend enough time to simply relax. It’s important for mental and emotional health. Most of the time our lives are moving at a fast pace and it never seems to end. So, taking time out for yourself to do nothing can be very therapeutic.

Relaxing for me meant hanging out with friends, eating good food, playing music, sitting on a boat in the Wickford Harbor and watching an awesome fireworks display.

I plan on doing some more relaxing tomorrow. I believe this round of therapy is working well.

Have a great day!

Michael

Nobody can contribute to the best of humanity who does not make the best out of himself. – Johann Gottfried von Herde

This quote is why I believe that a certain level of selfishness is critical to our well-being and hence the well-being of everyone in general. When we take care of ourselves we have more to give. When we put ourselves first by keeping our own cup full, we become an example for others to bring themselves to a better place.

It’s the old adage for saving money: Pay yourself first and somehow all the other bills get paid. It’s funny and sometimes seems counter intuitive but I believe it is a fundamental truth. When we sacrifice ourselves for others while not sustaining ourselves, we grow weaker. We feel emotionally malnourished and probably don’t even know why, especially if it has been going on for many years.

I believe in giving to others but giving to ourselves first sets us up for success in a variety of ways:

• We feel more fulfilled
• We feel emotionally satisfied
• Our creativity is enhanced
• Our overall life attitude improves
• We are happier
• We become an example to others on how to live
• We have more to give

So, take care of yourself. Do things that make you and you alone happy. Practice that hobby. Do fun things. Make sure you are giving to yourself on a daily basis. Use the rest of the day to help others. You won’t regret it.

Michael