Not enough people are told how awesome they are. Maybe you are one of them, so I’ll say it. YOU ARE FREAKING AWESOME. I truly believe that. Everyone has their own unique combination of fabulousness that needs to be expressed. I truly appreciate seeing others who embrace their strengths and run with them instead of keeping that shit to themselves.
So, let’s appreciate. When was the last time you told someone how great they are? Get over your embarrassment and pride. Telling someone they are super-cool doesn’t take away anything from what YOU are. It may feel a little weird at first, but who cares? Things get easier with practice. I’m not talking this copy-and-paste crap that circulates online. I’m talking about real, honest-to-goodness messages about WHY you think they’re awesome and what they have done to impact your life. Then, do it again.
Yesterday, I did exactly that. I started with one. Then, it felt so good I reached out to another. And other. These were people that had inspired me lately, friends I was missing and people who already know I love them but deserved to hear it again. Throughout the day certain people popped into mind, I’d be reminded of their awesome qualities for one reason or another and I’d reach out. It was really fun! By the end of the day, I’d contacted eleven people.
I got some really cool messages back, some telling me that I was awesome too (gotta love that). I got an unexpected phone call from someone to say thank you. Two people said I made their day. Two people ignored me, but even that’s OK. I hope they saw their messages I was able to brighten their day in some way.
What I found is that not only does lighting someone else’s candle NOT dull yours, it can help you learn more about yourself. After I sent my messages, I reflected on the qualities of the people who I reached out to, and perhaps more importantly… WHY I reached out to them. I contacted people that give of themselves selflessly without expecting anything in return. People who work hard, have awesome ethics. A few people who simply make me laugh or make the world a happier place by them being part of it. What that tells me is that those qualities are those I strive for myself, ones that I am always trying to tap into as well.
So, my mini-challenge to you today is to try this. Reach out to tell someone how awesome you think they are. Just start with one, but then see if you can do more. It will make you feel better too! Come back and comment with some of the reactions you get.