Posted: 6/13/2014 | Personal Development	Comments
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Having healthier self-esteem is an important life-long pursuit that takes us on a great adventurous journey. Traveling that journey takes self-examination, and the ability to really see ourselves with our strengths and our weaknesses, along with a healthy dose of tenacity and compassion for ourselves.

Below is an exercise that will help you examine your feelings, thoughts, and patterns, bringing you closer to greater self-esteem.

FEELINGS, THOUGHTS, AND THOUGHT PATTERNS
(Adapted from my multiple award-winning book, Your Ultimate Life Plan: How to Deeply Transform Your Everyday Experience and Create Changes That Last)

Think of a time, recently, when you were triggered by someone. He or she might have said something to you or behaved in a certain way that felt upsetting to you. With that in mind, allow yourself to take a deep belly breath. Imagine you’re there, right now, in that situation. Now notice your feelings for a moment. Now notice your thoughts and thought patterns for a moment. Where do they go? Just notice the thought patterns for a few minutes and answer the following questions:
 

• Where have I seen this feeling, thought, or pattern in my past?
  
• What’s the earliest memory I have with this feeling, thought, or pattern?
  
• What feelings came up with this memory?
  
• What events have occurred in my life that reinforced this?
  
•  Who taught this to me through their words, energy, or actions?

It’s not easy or comfortable to observe and let go of our habitual feelings, thoughts, and patterns. These ingrained feeling and belief patterns will become lighter and easier with practice.  As we continue being gentle and easy with ourselves, we allow ourselves a little more space to breathe, and we become a little more compassionate with ourselves and others. Over time, we can build a foundation of healthy self-esteem that allows us to move through life with greater peace and deeper joy.

Please let me know how this goes for you! Your comments make a difference for us all.

For further information on accessing the wisdom, happiness, fulfillment, and peace you desire, click here to learn about Dr. Howard's Multiple Award Winning Book "Your Ultimate Life Plan: How to Deeply Transform Your Everyday Experience and Create Changes That Last.

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