People
diagnosed with bipolar disorder are frequently very sensitive and
supportive to others. We are quick with a hug, a pat on the back, a
"Hurrah", an extra Kleenex, or a shoulder to lean upon...for our
friends. We do not provide ourselves or our self esteem with equal
treatment, especially when we are depressed.
Depression
repeatedly opens the door to our personal "dragon"...this is the
part of our psyche that tells us over and over how we "should have
done this" or "should have not done that" or "should
have done more". Nothing is ever enough for the
"dragon", we never win.
Thus, we allow the "dragon" to win by listening to the negative
remarks we make to ourselves...and worse yet...by
believing in them! Once the "dragon" has it's nasty teeth
into our self esteem, it continues unremittingly to tear at our very
souls, telling us we are horrible little creatures unworthy of
companionship, love, and respect.
Self
affirmation can
help stop the viscous circle of self destruction. It takes practice
and determination. It does not occur overnight, or
even in a week. Self affirmation does work, however, if you are
diligent!
Self
affirmation is you telling yourself positive things about yourself, making
sure that you impart the same caring for yourself that you would provide
for another.
Repeat
affirmations to yourself each and every day, and each and every time your
"dragon" attacks you with a negative thought. If you make
this a constant habit, you will not only be able to battle the
"dragon"...you will begin living the words you are telling
yourself and truly believing in yourself!
Here's
a few examples of daily affirmations that you can start with.
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I
love unconditionally, as well as myself. (This one
especially good for those "bad hair" days, or
when our dragon is tearing us down for our appearance.)
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I
look for the unique gifts in people, as well as myself. (This
one is good for those "should haves" and "should not
haves")
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I
am worthy of respect, as well as from myself. (We would never
say the same things to others that we "tell"
ourselves, it's time to break this cycle!)
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I
am kind to people, as well as myself. (This goes hand in hand
with the respect issue)
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I
am forgiving, as well as to myself. (How often do we
relentlessly beat ourselves up for a mistake?)
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I
appreciate what I DO have, so I don't need to waste
time being upset over what I don't have. (Practice writing down
at least 5 things you are grateful for. 5 too many? Make
it 3)
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When
you practice affirmations daily, you will be able to add more of your own,
ones that fit your personality and situation better.
When
the "dragon" rears it's ugly head upon you, remember to go back
to the first affirmation...I love unconditionally, as well as
myself. Repeat this over and over, the "dragon" will not
give up so easily...neither "should" you!!!
©
BPW kc
3/2004 Graphics by
