Are You Proud of Yourself?
In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to get caught up in a cycle of self-criticism. We often focus on where we feel we’ve failed, the goals we haven’t yet achieved, or the aspects of our lives that still need improvement. But how often do we take a step back and acknowledge how far we’ve come?
Let me ask you this:
Are you proud of yourself?
Take a moment to reflect on that question. If your answer is “yes,” then I applaud you. Celebrate your wins, big or small, and let them motivate you to keep going. But if your answer is “no,” allow me to challenge that by the end of this post.
The Trap of Self-Doubt
Many of us tend to say “no” because we aren’t satisfied with where we are in our lives right now. This dissatisfaction can stem from various areas—be it professional, mental, social, or spiritual. But is that really a fair assessment of your journey?
Let’s revisit the beginning, from the time you first stepped into adulthood. Think about where you started and where you are now. What were the challenges you faced back then, and what have you overcome?
The Small Wins Matter
Now, consider these questions:
- Are you independent?
- Are you pursuing an education, or have you completed one?
- Do you have a job, even if it’s not your dream job yet?
- Are you married or in a happy relationship?
- Do you have a child or children?
- Are you in a relationship, or are you learning to nurture your own company?
- Do you maintain connections with family or friends who matter to you?
- Do you drive or commute, showing responsibility and discipline?
- Do you have a place to call home, whether you own it or rent it?
- Do you manage your finances, paying rent or bills on time?
- Have you earned a degree or completed any courses?
- Do you find moments of happiness, even in the smallest things?
These are just a few examples of what progress can look like. You might not see these achievements as significant, but they are. Each one reflects growth, perseverance, and the ability to navigate life’s complexities. Where you see “just making ends meet,” someone else might see resilience. Where you see “not quite where I want to be,” someone else sees progress and determination.
Five Years Ago vs. Today
Think back to where you were five years ago. Can you see any progress? Did you handle a situation better today than you would have back then? Have you learned something new, whether it’s a skill, a mindset, or a healthier habit?
If there’s progress, no matter how small, then take a moment to be proud of yourself. It’s easy to compare ourselves to others or our own high expectations, but every step forward is an achievement.
Why It’s Important to Be Proud of Yourself
Acknowledging your wins—whether they’re small, like making a great meal, or big, like completing a degree—fuels your self-esteem. It motivates you to keep striving for the things you want. Feeling proud doesn’t mean you’re satisfied with where you are or that you don’t have more to achieve. It means you respect and value the journey you’re on, including the progress you’ve made.
Every day, you make decisions, face challenges, and push forward. That’s not something to overlook. It’s something to celebrate.
So, Let Me Ask Again: Are You Proud of Yourself?
Maybe now, your answer has shifted. Maybe you’re beginning to see the value in your journey and not just the destination.
Recognising your efforts doesn’t mean you’re settling. It means you’re choosing to appreciate yourself while striving for more. The fact that you’re still here, still pushing forward, still trying—that is a victory in itself. So the next time self-doubt creeps in, remind yourself of the steps you’ve already taken. Be proud of them.
Reflection
Celebrate the progress you’ve made. Be kind to yourself when you falter. And remember that it’s okay to be a work in progress. Life is not a race to perfection; it’s a journey of growth, learning, and resilience.
So, are you proud of yourself? You should be.
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