the man in the mirror

Today's quote is simple, direct, and often difficult to embrace:

"What you think of yourself is much more important than what others think of you." --Seneca

As we come back to places like school, work, etc., it is easy to fall back into the roles and identities that other people have created for us. Too often, when we look in the mirror at ourselves, we see a reflection of other people's opinions of us...we base our own perception of ourselves on the messages we get from others on how beautiful, how intelligent, or how talented we are.

So, the challenge of the day (hey, it's Wednesday bonus day-- you don't just get a quote, you get a challenge, too!) is to step outside of the expectations and definitions that other people have of you. Try to go an entire day without having thoughts like, "I wonder if anyone notices this lovely new zit on my chin," or "Will everyone at the table think I'm a hoss if I eat a third eggroll?' or "I think I know the answer, but I don't want to speak up, 'cause if I'm wrong, I'll look dumb." Live as you would if no one was watching.

Just be true to yourself, and love the self that you are.

And with that very Oprah-esque statement, I will close. Have a wonderful day!