Being Grateful For Who You Are

I was looking for a document the other day when I opened this letter of gratitude I wrote to myself in 2019 by mistake. I don’t remember why I wrote it, but I forgot about it. I’m glad I found it because it showed me where I was two years ago. It’s so easy to find our faults, but looking at the big picture of who we are and appreciating ourselves is a good idea.

Gratitude Letter

First, these are the aspects that I really love and value in myself. My intelligence and problem-solving skills have helped me figure out solutions to everyday situations. Being creative has allowed me to express myself through photography, baking, and other pursuits I open myself up to. Optimism in life and the world helps me navigate challenging times. One of my favorite qualities is that I am a compassionate, friendly person who loves the people in my life and is open to meeting new people.

Next, I’m grateful that I’ve learned to overcome fears of challenges that I’ve had to deal with. When I started hiring contractors for my tutoring business, I had to interview people. It took me a while to ask people questions without feeling like an imposter and having confidence in myself. I kept doing it until I felt comfortable, realizing that this was my company and I was doing a good job. I also had to learn to overcome my fear of photographing people by repeatedly doing it and not letting my perfectionist voice win.

I’m grateful that I found strength during the absolute worst time in my life. After Mike’s death, I allowed myself to feel all my emotions but still got up every morning, showered, did my job, and supported my kids. I never knew that I would be able to walk through something so painful and survive. I considered the first year after Mike died my lost year, but I learned how to thrive and be more compassionate to others who had to walk the journey we all must take. I also learned how to ask for help from people I knew would be understanding and supportive.

I’m grateful that I continue to learn that I can make mistakes without dwelling on them for a long time. I allow myself to feel my feelings, figure out what I can learn from them, and adjust how I’ll handle the situation in the future.

I’m grateful for all the growth that I’ve had in the last seven years. Emotionally, I’ve learned to focus on my behaviors more, seeking internal approval instead of others. I’m practicing being more compassionate toward myself. Physically, I work on taking time to exercise, eating a healthy diet, and making sure to plan time to pamper myself. Mentally, I make sure to get counseling when needed and be a part of a support group with people who share my experiences to gain tools to live a better life and, most significantly, learn to slow down and rest when I need it.

What I appreciate the most in my growth is that even though I’ve gone through some tough times in my life, I’ve become stronger on the other side with more compassion. I find more joy in simple things. I’ve built a new life surrounded by some of the kindest, interesting people I’ve been fortunate to meet. I’m much more willing to try new things and be okay doing it independently.