As I got in the car and headed for town, James Brown’s “I Feel Good” and Aretha Franklin’s “Respect” were the first two songs to play on the moldy oldie music station on the radio. What an empowering way to start the day’s journey.
Drifting along Memory Lane as I drove, some of the many influences and impacts from my childhood danced through my mind. Significant moments with my parents, family, friends in the neighborhood, teachers and role models popped in briefly. They helped me remember how far I have come and the millions of lessons I have learned through choices, stretched boundaries, use of time, anger, resentment, anxiousness, wanting to give up, letting go, appreciating simple joys and finding hope.
Here are some questions to keep in mind if the cloud of doubt blocks the sun of your thoughts:
- Do I love myself and treat myself as kindly as I do others?
- What are my strengths, and do I use them well?
- Do I surround myself with positive, supportive people?
- Do I avoid judgmental, fault-finding people?
- Do I give and accept sincere compliments?
Use these questions and jot down thoughts to build your self-confidence as you go about this week and decide on which you will focus your attention most in the week to come.
Through the years, I have come to understand that my self-confidence is a growth process. It can be influenced by those who surround me. I’ve learned to trust myself and continue to test my ability, judgment and courage. It is what it is, and it gets better every day! As my self-esteem and ability to assert myself grows, so does my self-confidence. This is neither arrogance nor aggression. I have come to know who I am, who I love and what I value. I am comfortable being me, warts and all. I will stand up for myself when the occasion arises. I do feel good and am worthy of respect. So are you! Let’s go make a difference!
I Care, Barb
By Arlene Clayton October 14, 2019
Found this in my trash can! Let’s hope this is not another of those gut feelings about emotions and weight that the blog will continue to be in the trash can.
By Barb Maas November 9, 2019
Exactly what is it you are saying here? I hope its not that you see no connection between self-esteem and assertiveness or that being overweight has an effect on both or that anything along these lines bores you so greatly that you put it in the trash. Everyone on a weight loss journey deals with emotional issues whether they admit it or not so give it a chance.
By Shirley Olive October 14, 2019
I am fortunate to share your blog with our TOPS chapter for those that do not have skills needed to read it. It is a blessing to read all the uplifting blogs and choosing one or two to bring for a program. Thank you for all you do for TOPS. A KOPS since
May 2019.
By Wanda Jewett October 6, 2019
Thanks, Barb! I too have evolved into a much more loving, more assertive, stronger, and kinder, and I think also wiser person as I’ve grown older. I like myself now, just like you like yourself – warts and all! Perhaps I should say “wrinkles, age spots, and all!
I always enjoy your blogs; please don’t stop writing!
By Val Webb October 4, 2019
I really enjoy reading Monday’s Moment of Truth.
Love all the topics that helps me along the way.
Keeps me on track as our meetings are on Monday nights.
Love TOPS.
By CK September 30, 2019
***Barb: Your column is: “THE TOPS”!!! Inspiring…Can def. relate and loved going down
“memory lane” w/ “R-E-S-P-E-C-T” too!!!;D
By Jennifer Roussin September 30, 2019
You are right on about avoiding negative people, and surrounding yourself with positive supportive people.
By Jennice Wilson September 30, 2019
Thank you for this post! I desperately needed this moment of truth today!
By Janet Long September 30, 2019
Thanks for sharing about self confidence. A lot of times we have to be reminded of these things that keep us positive in life. You got me on the right track for today & this week. Thanks again, Love You & Love TOPS.
By Sandra Hangey September 30, 2019
Thank you Barb, I have suffered from insecurity and lack of self confidence my whole life. I am relieved to see you admit you have had problems also… I am 75 and 5 pounds from my goal weight and am better than I was but still have room for improvement.
By Jennifer Roussin September 30, 2019
@Sandra Hangey, awesome job!
By Judy Culbertson September 30, 2019
Amen!