It is so easy to envy others: their beauty, their success, their relationships; etc. However, what we do not always see is the effort or sacrifice it sometimes takes to achieve and maintain the things we are jealous others possess. Further, as Dr. Maya Angelou is alluding to in this quote, even when we know about the work and sacrifice, we may still be begrudge people, and not acknowledge their dedication and effort.

Interestingly, this feeling of not acknowledging the effort and sacrifice can also be directed at ourselves. All too often, we as women, are prepared to gloss over our achievements and the work we have put in to get us what we have, or where we are. When others compliment us, we don’t just say, “Thank you, I really appreciate it”. Instead we downplay ourselves, “Oh, it really wasn’t that much…”.

Why do we do that?

 

Throughout the day, we invite you to revisit this quote. Below are a few questions you may wish to ask yourself, and those who journal may find them especially useful:

• Can I take a compliment?
• How quick am I to downplay my effort or achievement and deflect to others?
• Do I fully acknowledge myself and the work I have done?
• Do I fully acknowledge myself and the work I am doing to become a better version of who I currently am?

 

 

Best wishes, and have a great day!