Celebrate “Recognize Your Accomplishments” Day!

“You gain strength, courage, and confidence by each experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, 'I have lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along…'” 

Eleanor Roosevelt

When we think back to what you have achieved with our lives, we tend to focus on those signature moments: when we received our diploma, got our driver’s license, had our first child, was hired for our dream job. 

Our eyes are on our successes—there is nothing wrong with that. We should take note of those times when our efforts and commitment paid off. 

But just for a moment, I want you to think back to those dark, difficult, desperate times: when you lost your job, were faced with a major illness, found yourself on your own. 

What traits helped you get through it? 

What aspect of yourself did you draw on for strength or inspiration? 

What did you do and how did you do it? 

These are also accomplishments worthy of note, because they illustrate facets of your personality and character that can be called on, again and again, when the going gets rough and you have to get going. 

Difficult times should not be shoved far back in your memory banks, to be forgotten. Instead, regard them as illustrations of what you can do and are capable of when challenged.