November Nuggets
N- Notice. Recognise all that you have achieved this year so far.
We sometimes get caught up in what we have not accomplished, whilst missing the moments of triumph that have occurred. However subtle or explicit, give yourself permission to notice and to congratulate yourself.
O- Optimise on optimism. Yes it is the case that there are times in life that bring dissatisfaction, disappointment and distress. Even in such times, is there opportunity to see a silver lining, or the glass half full? If not, self-compassion always! Sometimes we may add to our suffering by questioning our emotions and thoughts. Allowing, letting be and owning our experience, whatever shape they may come in, can enhance a sense of optimism. It can soften even the more difficult.
V- Vividly love. Whatever or whoever you may love, vividly express it. Whether it is to yourself or to another. Tap into what you love. With power, clarity and passion. Give into the feeling of love. Vulnerability has a place for us all.
E- Encourage yourself. Tell yourself you are worth it, that you are capable, that you deserve it. Be the voice you need. Hear the words that you need. Sometimes it may be faking it until we make it. Challenge those critical thoughts or moments of self-doubt. How true are these discouraging thoughts? Thoughts are not facts.
M- Mindful moments. Invite yourself to bring mindful awareness into your day. That moment to moment experience can enrich your life. Fully being there for whatever it is you may be doing. Eating, drinking, talking, sitting, to name a few. Feeling the ground beneath your feet as you walk or sit, the breeze on your skin, the physical sensations that accompany your emotions. Embracing all that may come. Treating all honourably and with attention.
B- Breathing. Remember to breathe. Your breath is your most powerful tool. It is always there, free of charge. Using your breath to centre you and to reconnect whenever you may need to. Practicing when you are in a calm state is advisable so you are more practised for those moments where you may need it the most. Choosing a place of anchor can be helpful, such as the feeling of the breath in the stomach and noticing it rise and fall. It could also be the air in your nose or even your chest as it moves. When the mind wonders or emotions may start to cause distress. Using your breath to bring yourself back over and over again can sooth, settle you and allow yourself time to decide your next move. What wise action is needed here? What do you need in this very moment. Practise is key. Patience is golden.
E-Exquisite empathy. Empathy is beautiful. In a world that can be fast paced and at times brutal, empathy for the win. To give to others but never forgetting to prioritise giving empathy to yourself. To notice your own suffering with sensitivity with a commitment to alleviate it is the road in being able to do that for others. Fuel yourself with kindness, understanding and compassion. You will be a force of nature for yourself and to others.
R- Resilience overload. You have the ability to withstand adversity, adapt to challenges and to recover from setbacks. Feeling the fear? Fearing the rejection or the perceived failure? Know that you can pick yourself up regardless of what may come your way. Your ability to cope, persist and take meaning from all that may arrive, overrides all. Resilience is skill that can be enhanced and nurtured.
