It’s hard to be there for others when stifled by self-doubt. We could find ourselves believing that we’re not ENOUGH to be an everyday hero. It’s simply not true.
It’s hard to be there for others when stifled by self-doubt. We could find ourselves believing that we’re not ENOUGH to be an everyday hero. It’s simply not true.
The other day I was reading an interview in the Atlanta Journal Constitution with former first lady Rosalynn Carter. She turned 90 on August 18th and is still quite active with a legacy of advocacy and do-gooding that would put anyone to shame.
I did a backtrack when I read this in the article, “I turned 50, and I thought that was really bad.” She was turning 50 and living in the White House. In that moment, it didn’t matter that she lived in the most powerful house in the United States. Self-doubt can hit anyone, anywhere.
I was reminded of how vulnerable we are to our own thoughts. The messages that run through our minds that can limit us.
I do it. Rosalynn Carter did it. You probably do it too.
In the interview, the former first lady said she wish she could go back to reassure her younger self “that you can have a full life after 50.” There are bad messages that play in our heads that tell us we aren’t enough–young enough, smart enough, or maybe even wealthy enough.
That’s the rub I want to uncover.
It’s hard to be there for others when stifled by self-doubt. We could find ourselves believing that we’re not ENOUGH to be an everyday hero. It’s simply not true.
Years ago, when I was in my first job as an HR Manager, I was going through a crazy time at work. On the way to the office one morning, I stopped to get some hot, fresh donuts. One of my co-workers stopped by my office later that day and asked me if I had a new boyfriend. “No,” I said. “I just wanted to do something nice for everybody.”
While that quick stop to the donut shop did nothing to help our waistlines that day, it made me forget all about the craziness around me. I was pleased to see everyone gathered around the donut boxes, chatting and laughing. I’m sure they forgot about some of their troubles for a moment too.
There will be obstacles to being an everyday hero.
Sometimes you won’t feel like helping. Sometimes you may not have the time or means to help. Don’t let the word EVERYDAY get in your way. It doesn’t mean that you are “saving the day” all the time. Everyday could mean every now and then for you. Remember that a little here and a little there go a long, long way.
I keep reminding myself I am enough. You are enough to be an everyday hero too.
Is there something getting in your way of saving the day? Is there a bad message playing that you need to turn off?
