Kathy Sdao always makes me laugh and she always makes me learn. Honestly, what more could I ask for?
I invited Kathy to talk with me about worth because as the author of Plenty in Life is Free, she's done a lot of thinking about the topic.
In coaching sessions and workshops, I've talked with many pet professionals who struggle with their own sense of worth and a feeling that they need to earn their place at the table. I can relate; I've felt that way too.
Do you ever feel that way?
It's not true. It can feel true, but it is not true.
You--with all of your imperfections and flaws--are worthy of love and acceptance. Period.
But your busy brain is always making judgments and comparisons. Everywhere you look someone else is doing better or worse than you--and you notice it.
This kind of thinking doesn't bring you peace and joy. It leaves you scrambling in pursuit of perfection--and none of us will ever get there!
Rather than striving to be perfect or worthy, let's strive instead to be mindful, aware, and compassionate.
You are going to struggle with this. We all do. Having a sense of humor about it helps!
Noticing the moments you struggle, giving yourself some self-acceptance and self-compassion, and then practicing "leveling up," responding a bit better each time, is a lifetime practice that will lead to greater peace and joy.
We're all in this together. We're all doing the best we can. It's hard work, and it's easy to get swept away by our emotions.
Imagine how the world would change if each of us could be just 5% kinder and more compassionate with ourselves and each other.
Let's all try to level up on this.
Take Action Today
#1. How can you help the people you interact with feel seen, heard, and respected?
#2. What can you do this week to demonstrate to yourself that you have worth just as you are?
For many pet professionals, #2 is harder than #1. It's a key piece for making significant changes in your life. If it's hard, identify a baby step you can accomplish. Celebrate your approximations! (Check out the UNLEASHED Resilience Groups if you'd like to have some support in learning new behavior patterns.)
