What Surprised Me The Most
Who or what surprised you the most this year?
While I’m always surprised by People Magazine’s choice for The Sexiest Man Alive, this year’s choice hasn’t caused me too much stress. I’m surprised by how quickly my hair turns gray. I’m also surprised by how fast my kids grow. But here’s where my thoughts linger…
Confidence is not something I generally lack and it’s taken decades to feel comfortable with that. I try to live with thoughtful intention and grow from my feelings and actions. I’ve put in the work– but like any good quest, there’s more to be done.
What continues to surprise me is how others still hold power in how I feel or value myself. It’s not all-encompassing, but it’s enough that it’s there.
I am sensitive; it’s both a gift and a curse. I still care what people think– not to the extent that it used to be, but it still bugs me. Being overlooked for a job, an invite, or otherwise; I hate that these things still matter.
I know these thoughts will never fully dissipate (and I suspect they shouldn’t fully). I value strength and self-love, and I encourage my children and friends to stand proud, be confident and decide their worth for themselves. While I do live these ideals on most days, I’m still surprised at just how authentically challenging it can be.
I will keep moving forward and should I find my emotions in someone else’s hands, I’ll consider ‘the why’ of it all. I mean– what is it that they have that I can’t seem to give to myself? (Don’t answer that!)
Sometimes we ask questions that won’t go away like, why do Twinkies make you fat? These questions (and more!) are in need of a deeper review.
literallysimple
Other people’s opinions always seem to shock me, because I still seem to care about them… Still working on it! đŸ™‚
The Sunny Side
I suppose it will be an eternal work in progress!
dorianne
confidence takes work…and when we think we get there….poof! we need to constantly remind ourselves of the confidence we have built over time. What shocks me the most is my inability to answer questions (common questions) over the holidays of “How are you?” do they want deep answers? or are they just masked answers? hmmm. I do have to say it was an enjoyable holiday this season though…xo. always work in progress
The Sunny Side
Great Insight Dorianne! You know- I always go with ‘if they asked then they’re going to get a real answer!’ It may teach them not to ask! I always feel bad that I answer and often forget to reciprocate!
jennybhatia
This still surprises me as well. I guess it is human nature!
A Nation of Moms
I consider myself pretty patient and positive, but in the past year I’ve given up on some things that I just can’t persevere through any more. I am also surprised how fast my kids grow up!