Self-doubt is a calculated monster thriving on subtleties.  It’s the summation of all of the little, almost forgettable occurrences perhaps glazed over in the moment, only to resurface in totality with every other fleeting thought about not being good enough that had once skipped across your mind.

Assurance has to be instilled by the self and only the self, but being surrounded by people who see the good in you opens up an avenue which assists in the ability to view yourself in a light devoid of insecurity.  Good company and encouragement can act as a catalyst in the journey to self-love.

“Surround yourself with the dreamers and the doers, the believers and thinkers, but most of all, surround yourself with those who see the greatness within you, even when you don’t see it yourself.”

This has been one of my favorite quotes for a long time and its notion is something I aim to infiltrate into my life daily.  I want people to feel encouraged about themselves, their talents and their abilities, and if they are not, I want to be able to remind them of their capabilities.

This isn’t always easy, and it would be naive of me to say that telling someone they’re great is the same as having a person believe it.  Of course, this goes for me too. Sometimes I find myself in creative ruts, bogged down with thoughts of whether or not my writing is good and whether or not it reaches people.  Usually I am able to recognize my abilities and the place of necessity that writing has in my life (reach or no reach), but having encouragement outside the self allows me distance to readjust my course of thinking when I am unable to.

Last Christmas, my sister Meaghan gifted me a beautiful portrait.  A commissioned piece, she was able to give artist Chloe Lee specific details she wanted included which she felt were best representative of me. Of the portrait, Meaghan told me: “…hair: because it is one of your defining features; pencil: because you are an incredible writer and it is what you’re most passionate about; sunflowers: because I know they’re your favorite and they remind me of you – strong, bright, and always looking towards the sun.”

This is a generous and thoughtful piece and I’m so grateful to my sister for presenting me with such a lovely representation of myself.  It’s important to have people in your life who are eager to remind you of the good they see in you so that you do not forget it yourself.

Take the time this week to highlight people’s goodness.  Perhaps they’re feeling lost and need a boost on their journey of self-discovery.  Try to be that for them.

bridget