LOH #261: Finding Strength in Self-Acceptance and Gratitude!

Hello, Ladies of Hive!

It’s been a while, and I am so excited to share my thoughts by answering @ifarmgirl's questions.

2️⃣ Do you have a negative thought about yourself? What is it, and are you doing something to reframe that and adopt a more positive outlook?

3️⃣ Gratitude or gratefulness helps boost our overall well-being. Do you practice a "grateful living" approach? If you do, what are you most thankful for today?

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2️⃣ Do you have a negative thought about yourself? What is it, and are you doing something to reframe that and adopt a more positive outlook?

There are times when I find myself having negative thoughts about who I am and what I can do. One of the most common negative thoughts I have is the feeling that I am not good enough. I sometimes compare myself to others and wonder why I am not as successful, confident, or capable as they seem to be. This kind of thinking often makes me doubt my worth and question my abilities, especially when things do not go as planned. It can be draining and discouraging, and it sometimes affects my motivation and self-esteem.

When I let negative thoughts take over, I stop myself from getting better. I've learned that how I think affects how I feel and what I do. To help myself, I take small steps to change my thinking. Paying attention to my thoughts helps me; when negative thoughts come up, I pause and ask myself if they are really true. I try to see things differently and remind myself that I always try my best, even if it's not perfect.

Each week, I write down what I’m thankful for in my gratitude journal. This habit helps me focus on what I have instead of what I’m missing. Even when things are hard, it reminds me to notice the good things in my life. I also say positive phrases like “I am capable,” “I am improving,” and “I am enough.” Saying these words often helps me believe in myself and be kinder to myself.

Supportive people also help me. Talking to family and friends brings comfort and reassurance when I feel down. Their encouragement shows me I am valued and loved. I celebrate small victories and take pride in my progress, even if it is imperfect.

Over time, I have realized negative thoughts are normal, but they do not make me who I am. Being positive, thankful, and kind to myself helps me believe in myself and accept my flaws with kindness and hope.

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3️⃣ Gratitude or gratefulness helps boost our overall well-being. Do you practice a "grateful living" approach? If you do, what are you most thankful for today?

I believe gratitude has a powerful impact on our well-being. It shifts our focus to what we have, not what we lack. I practice “grateful living” because it reminds me to recognize even the smallest blessings. Life isn’t perfect, but when I live with gratitude, I feel more peaceful, content, and positive. It helps me meet challenges with a lighter heart, knowing there are always reasons to smile and be thankful.

I practice grateful living through my gratitude journal. Each weekend, or when I feel sad or stressed, I write what I am thankful for. This habit helps me focus on the good instead of the bad. It helps me think about and notice my blessings, even when things are hard. Writing about my blessings makes me appreciate life more and trust that everything happens for a reason.

Today, I am most thankful for my family, especially for their love and support. They are my greatest source of strength and comfort. Even if life becomes difficult, I know that I can always count on them to be there for me. I am also grateful for my friends who bring joy and laughter into my life. Sharing meals, stories, and simple moments with them makes my days brighter and more meaningful. Another thing I am thankful for is my work as a teacher, because it allows me to inspire and touch my students' lives. Seeing their growth and smiles reminds me of why I chose this profession.

Finally, I am grateful just to be alive, to wake up, drink my coffee, and enjoy the beauty of nature. Living with gratitude reminds me that real happiness comes from love, peace, and having a sense of purpose, not from material things. When I practice gratitude every day, I feel calmer and positive. Being thankful helps me see the good in each day.