In the challenging era in which we are living, it’s only natural that all of us, sometimes, suffer from self-doubt. It’s helpful to remember that this is a normal human emotion, and even the people we admire, have times when by they feel vulnerable. Some of the best actors, for example, suffer from dreadful stage fight, yet still manage to give memorable seamless performances.

One of the tools they use is conditioning their minds to be present in the moment, a form of mindfulness. They also recall their strengths as a performer, or specific aspects of their craft, and bring these to the forefront of their minds as they wait in the wings.

Of course, they might work through a few breathing, and stretching exercises too, and this in itself demonstrates that these easy-to-apply self-care disciplines: all work in unison.

Essentially, what they are doing is bringing these tools to the forefront of their minds; they are being consciously aware. They can grab these resources in much the same way, as we might reach into our desk drawer for a phone charger.

It’s helpful to jot down, or familiarise yourselves with your strengths too, see it as being no different from writing a shopping list, keep it in a place, such as in your phone case, or “learn” them parrot-fashion. It’ll really help you when you might next feel overwhelmed.

It is your very own built-in, bounce cushion, or safety harness, and whether or not you feel that you do indeed have strengths; it’s frankly your understandable fragile mental health, which can cloud your self-perception.

Some of the strengths you have are crouching deeply in your subconscious minds, and it’s only your own worries, anxieties, or your unique mental health profile, that is keeping your strengths hidden and masked.

Perhaps, if I tell you some of my strengths, then it might get you thinking about some of yours?

Here goes: Caring / good sense of humour / genuine / enjoy growing as a human/ value truth and integrity / enjoying growing my stamina.

Remember, doing so is neither arrogant nor self-indulgent. It is self-care.

I hope this has helped soothe you.

SUNNY wishes,

Emma x