If you were asked to draw a portrait of your face and you sketched just one eye, a nose and lips, this would not be a complete or accurate representation of you. In the same sense, many of us choose daily to hide pieces of ourselves and go through life only presenting a “half illustrated” person to the world. This can damage your ability to connect to yourself and others. Authenticity builds trust.
Take a moment to reflect of the beauties and barriers you have. Ponder each question to arrive at a better understanding of your strengths and weaknesses, then resolve to follow through on any ideas that come to mind about how to remove your barriers and share your beauties.
EARS • Am I appropriately hearing and applying the compliments and criticism others give me? Who is one person in my life that models this behavior in a healthy way?
EYES • How do I see myself? Am I presenting an accurate or adaptive person to the world? What character- istics do I love/hate about myself?
NOSE • Just as smoke is to a fire, what are some “signals” in my life that indicate I am doing well or not doing well? How often do I ignore or act on these signals?
MOUTH • What weaknesses do I have in speaking about my accomplishments and setbacks with others? Am I asking for help when needed? Ideas for removing my barriers and sharing my beauties.
Read the narrative titled “The Shine and the Shadow” in the Library