Why self-acknowledgement is crucial
"Success is achieved by developing our strengths, not eliminating our weaknesses."
Marilyn vos Savant
Generally, we aren’t very good at saying what we are great at. It’s often easier to list what we could improve upon, are terrible at and what we can’t stand about ourselves.
How often do you take the time to acknowledge what you are great at? What is it about acknowledging something truly great that is so difficult and uncomfortable? Do you feel that it’s boastful or egotistical to acknowledge that you’re great at something? Is it possible that it’s beneficial, or even productive, to do so?
A lot about the way we live revolves around other people’s acknowledgement of us. Family and friends, teachers and bosses acknowledge us, but when we look to ourselves we often focus on what we lack. Outside recognition and validation only serves as a temporary feel good. If you have an appetite for appreciation from others you will spend a lifetime grazing and never be truly satisfied. It feels wonderful when someone acknowledges your greatness, but it is very different when you stop to acknowledge yourself.
Children are masters at acknowledgement. They know when they are good at something. They thrive on acknowledgement from others and acknowledging themselves. It’s only when we grow up that we stop acknowledging our greatness. Our concern becomes not being good enough, judging ourselves harshly for not working hard enough, being happy enough or achieving enough. We hold ourselves back because we don’t take the time to acknowledge and celebrate what we are great at.
The Oxford Dictionary defines acknowledgement as “acceptance of truth or existence of something.” To acknowledge something or someone is to see them. It allows you to see who you really are and appreciate yourself. Appreciation of yourself means knowing exactly what your strengths and gifts are and how you will impact this world in a way no one else can.
You don’t have to save lives, be a CEO or invent something to be great. You may be an expert at diffusing difficult situations, at bringing fun and creativity to everything you do. You may be a dependable friend who can be counted on to always lend an ear, a whiz in the kitchen and all around taste bud pleaser, or an excellent joke teller who always gets a giggle.
Everyone has greatness in them. Think of three statements starting with "I am great at…" This is not easy; which is why we tend to struggle when we have to write our resume or when we are put on the spot to sell ourselves in a job interview. We’d really rather be doing something else! Start with what you think your strengths are. What do you do well? What can you be counted on for? What difference do you make? When you do this exercise, don’t let ‘but’ and ‘however’ creep in: “I am great at ______ but I really could be better at.” Focus on your greatness.
Sit with it. Celebrate it. Acknowledge you!
"I know who I am, I know what I can and can't do. I know what I will and won't do. I know what I'm capable of."
Dolly Parton