The ABCs of "U"

Here’s a great little exercise to try when you’re feeling down and critical about yourself. Get a piece of paper and write the letters of the alphabet, from A to Z, all the way down the page. Next, for each letter, think of a positive word to describe yourself. Be as specific as possible. Really try to narrow it down to what makes you, YOU! For example:

A … Artistic

B … Bubbly

C … Charismatic

D … Daring

E … Exuberant

… and so on, all the way to Z. (For letter like X and Z, where words might be harder to think of, try to think of a word that includes those letters, like SeXy for X, or DaZzling for Z.)

It’s very important, however, that you truly believe that those words describe you. If not, it will just be a meaningless, empty list.

Everyone has positive qualities and characteristics. You’re not being arrogant or egotistical acknowledging all these great things about yourself. You’re simply recognizing your own particular attributes, and we all have them.

Really take the time to sit down, do this exercise, and think about it. Afterwards, keep it in an accessible place so that you can look at it whenever you need a little pick-me-up. You can also try doing a “refresher” list every month or so. This is a great way to see how your perspective is changing.

On the flip side, you can also try doing the same list, but with negative qualities. We all have negative qualities as well. This will make you aware of the things you need to work on. For example:

A … Angry

B … Bored

C … Cranky

D … Dull

E … Easily manipulated (phrases are okay too)

Refer to this list afterward as well, and focus on the negative traits you want to eliminate from your life. You’d be surprised what might pop out of your subconscious when you sit down to do this exercise. If a particular word comes to mind instantly, but it disturbs you, don’t censor it. Write it down. Keep the list private so that no one sees it but you.

This little exercise is a lot of fun. Happy listing!