Hello.
My name is Jenn and I am a self-criticizer.
You know the old saying, ‘you are your own worst critic‘? That fits me perfectly. I am especially hard on myself whenever I start a new venture or take on something different. I judge my thoughts, mock my ideas and roll my eyes at the thought of me doing anything well. I take the fun out of things that I once found enjoyable because I turn them into a “job”. Instead of letting things flow and allowing whatever happens to occur naturally, I start making mental schedules, setting deadlines and try to always ensure a perfect outcome. I beat myself up when things don’t go according to plan or for not having enough time or not spending my time wisely enough or just simply for not being better then I am. It’s an energy-sucking, vicious cycle that has existed all throughout my life (kind of like that comparison void I’ve often found myself in).
However, I’ve gotten better with how I deal when all the ‘crap‘ starts really piling up. I know that when I’m passionate about something, I get excited. My heart rate speeds up, my eyes widen and I smile…a lot. I have fun working on whatever it is I’m doing and the end result is usually quite positive. Thankfully, as I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned the remedy that I need when things stop being fun + I no longer get excited: I need a break.
I need time to simply relax and let my brain unwind.
To stretch + meditate; to read; to color (yes!), to watch movies…
to be inspired!
(and of course eat a lot of Butterfingers out of the freezer +
cuddle with my dog,Tammy Faye Barker)
I basically do whatever makes me happy and enjoy the little things in life. I make time for work as well as time for my own mental health.
And why not? It’s important to take care of yourself. In fact, it’s absolutely crucial.
I’ve learned that instead of beating ourselves up + critiquing all of our flaws, we need to be our own support system. When you cheer yourself on and take time to find happiness, you get a hell of a lot more accomplished. Instead of thinking ‘I’m a huge loser‘ or ‘I could have done better‘ and sulking, focus on how much you actually DID and try to learn something for next time. Life is a series of trial + error. Don’t waste energy on the mistakes you make. No one is perfect. Make it all a learning experience and simply have fun. Life is way too short not to.
So get lost in a book or discover a new movie. Find some park swings and hang outside or simply eat some chocolate. Figure out what helps you shift your crap thoughts and start enjoying life a bit more. I promise, it’s totally worth it…
How do YOU take a break and unwind?
Happy Write Away 