We all want to feel amazing. It’s pretty much a universal truth. We do, say, act, and consume in ways to fly high. We even have a voice within us dedicated to ensuring we keep from failing and by heeding its advice, we’re convinced we’ll feel good. Sadly our inner critic only shames us into action. Let’s be honest – it fails horribly at making us feel amazing.
So, let’s start with a list of what NOT to do.
I recently came across this checklist for feeling pathetic on greunie.thoughts.com. It made me laugh. This might sound familiar to your inner critic.
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- Choose someone and compare yourself unfavorably to them
- Examine your face in the mirror and note all the flaws
- Relive awful and embarrassing moments that occurred years ago
- Make a list of all the people you regularly disappoint including those who share your last name
- Disregard all compliments especially from people who supposedly love you
- Resign yourself to believing that from now on, this is how you will always feel.
Though your inner critic would have a heyday with this list, it’s probably not such a good plan.
Want to feel incredible every single day? Then silence your inner critic and make some of these tips to feel amazing a daily habit.
- Think of at least one thing that you plan to do today that is exciting, tell a friend and make yourself accountable.
- Be vulnerable. Hug the first person you see. Tell them how much you appreciate them.
- Play your favorite music. Often. Dance while you make breakfast.
- Gaze at sun rays beaming through tree branches. Experience awe.
- Concentrate on one thing you’re proud of yourself for. Acknowledge that it took work and you did it.
- Spend some time with small children. Bonus points if you can get them to laugh with you.
- Treat yourself to chocolate.
- Interact with someone you really admire.
- Make a point to learn something new. (Did you know that the 57 on Heinz ketchup bottles represents the number of pickles the company once had?)
- Make a note of 5 things you’re really grateful for and focus on any one of these when you feel anything less than great.
- Reframe that one thing that’s bumming you out as a gift. Tell yourself how this struggle you’re going through is totally on purpose and necessary for your amazing future. Get excited about it.
- Remember the words of Plato: “Be kind. For everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.” Remember that you’re NEVER alone.
Inspired yet? No?
Then reread the checklist for feeling pathetic and laugh. Take three deep breaths. Smile. Keep smiling. Remind yourself you are more powerful than you realize. Change your frame. Choose happiness. Live always on purpose.
Have any more tips to feel amazing? Would love to hear about them. Share them below!
Amy Eliza Wong is a life coach, writer, and speaker in the Sacramento, CA area committed to helping people figure out what makes them tick so they can finally live with joy and real purpose. Learn more about working with her.
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