Bright Ideas: Tips for Positive Thinking and Personal Growth

Bright Idea: You Are Always Enough

“Quiet the voice telling you to do more and be more, and trust that in this moment, who you are, where you are and what you are doing is enough. You will get to where you need to be in your own time. Until then, breathe. Breathe and be patient with yourself and your process. You are doing the best you can to cope and survive amid your struggles, and that’s all you can ask of yourself. It’s enough. You are enough” 

As I let out a much-needed deep breath and sit in the quiet of my office, hearing the occasional click of a keyboard or voices down the hall, I am reminded to be a little easier on myself.  The weight of the current world at times feels like it enjoys sitting promptly on our shoulders, doesn’t it? It’s almost mocking us as it watches us scramble to navigate through the mess laid before us.  There are some days I feel like every time I blink another road block has stopped me dead in my tracks.  So, what do you do when you feel stuck, overwhelmed or when that weight starts to feel a little too heavy?  When you feel like no matter what you do, it’s never enough?

Well, I’ve got news for you:  it is always enough.  Your very existence is enough.  The fact that you wake up every day and do the best you can each day is enough.  Teachers and parents: tell your children just how “enough” they are.  Look them in the eye and tell them they are capable, competent and strong.  Look in the mirror and tell yourself that, too.  Each time I meet a new child I am inspired by the endless possibilities in their eyes.  I often think quietly to myself, “I hope you know how incredible you are”.  You see, when you work with children and families that face various challenges and you are lucky enough to be a part of their growth, you’re reminded that with each obstacle often comes triumph.  Each small victory feels like you’ve made the podium at the Olympics – and it should.

We should all take the time to honor our own small victories more. It’s important to celebrate those around us, but we should really celebrate ourselves too.  If you are having a bad day and feel like there’s nothing worth acknowledging, praise yourself for getting through the day.  That sometimes, is an accomplishment in and of itself.

You are enough.  Hold onto those little victories and reflect on them when things feel uneasy.  Your existence inspires and empowers me.  Thank you for simply being you. 

Mary Rose White
Program Coordinator