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It may sound childish, as the message of "believe in yourself" has been engraved in our brains almost since the day we were born. However, the simple task of viewing the positives in our lives is commonly dismissed on a day-to-day basis.

We create a specific vision of how we anticipate executing certain tasks and fulfilling the expectations of the day, settling for nothing less than perfection. In reality, the day's outcome tends to veer from the original plan, resulting in what we might consider to be a failure.

This negativity builds and creates a heavy weight of distress and disappointment, causing us to view ourselves in a skewed light — one plagued by our occasional missteps. There are 1,440 minutes in each day. More often than not, we get caught up on those very few moments out of 1,440 that were not our best.

We can be so overcome by the feeling of not being good enough and not having enough strength. We're ruled by our own insecurities. This misrepresentation of our full potential damages our self-image and self-confidence, forcing us to wear a mask of defeat.

The weight of these moments can be easily lifted by something as simple as appreciation.

By appreciating not only who we are but also what we’ve accomplished, our strengths will soon outweigh our few weaknesses. Many feel the act of looking back on the past is one of fruitless reminiscing. We become disappointed, because we are no longer who we used to be.

Yet, being reminded of the path we've taken exemplifies our growth as individuals. As we continue our journey through various stages of life, we create building blocks to help us continue forward. We're constantly lifted by the honors and recognition that we've received from simply being ourselves.

From getting an A on a tough test to catching a smile from that certain someone who is always on our mind, these moments are able to bring us back to our true selves, allowing our real personalities to shine through. We remember who we are and what we are able to accomplish, regardless of what may stand in our way.

While we may make mistakes, we are only human. We will always have an opportunity to learn lessons and apply them the next day, creating a newer, more mature version of ourselves. This person is not different; rather, he or she has a sharper sword and tougher armor to tackle the next day’s challenges.

Take the time to appreciate yourself. Reflect on you, your life, your accomplishments and the traits that make you one of a kind. The person you are, made up of a mix of success and failures, is something of which you should always be proud.

Reach the columnist at rsmouse@asu.edu or follow her @BeccaSmouse


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