15 Comments
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Min's avatar

Hi Sue, I'm becoming more accepting of who I am but I must admit that there is still a little element of feeling 'not enough' in me. It's been there my whole life so it's hard to shake - not tall enough, not pretty enough, not slim enough, not popular enough, not sporty enough, etc. Nowadays, though I still feel 'not enough' in some instances ... I do know that I'm a good person. I was not meant to be loud and hugely popular. I'm quiet, introspective, introverted, thoughtful, empathetic, compassionate, kind and very loyal to those I love and care about. I need a lot of time to myself to process my thoughts and to recharge my energy. That is just how I am. It doesn't mean I'm inferior to those that are extroverted, loud and very popular. I am still worthy. Thanks for sharing such a thought provoking post with us at #WWWhimsy xo

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Sue Women Living Well After 50's avatar

I think deep down we all feel that way, Min but as we age I think we improve a little at a time. It is hard to shake off what we have felt for a lifetime and suddenly view things differently. You are a caring soul and don't change. You are not inferior and look at all the creative talents you have. Take care and sending hugs. Sue L x

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Donna Connolly's avatar

Great words of wisdom here, Sue. Im glad you are feeling better. I haven't been able to respond online while I am camping but am now in a coffee shop and thought I'd check in with you.

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Denyse Whelan B.Ed M.Ed's avatar

The words are very helpful when we believe them...I tend to be a non-believer aka "I can't think that" and being Black and White thinker does not help. I am, however, aware of this and that is a start.

I am using self-compassion in my words to help me over difficult times. However, sometimes these times are here to be guide for us to acknowledge what is actually going on and to open up to ourselves or a trusted friend.

Take care Sue,

Denyse x

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Sue Women Living Well After 50's avatar

Hi Denyse, I agree that we need to believe in the words and that isn't easy, especially after a lifetime of thinking one way.. It is difficult to change but we can. You are looking much happier so your self-compassion is certainly working. Take care x

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Denyse Whelan B.Ed M.Ed's avatar

Thank you Sue, I'm learning to be less strident in my views.

You're right, we can make changes & that's something I've needed to take on board to keep my recovery from burnout going well.

Take care dear friend

Denyse x

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Deb's World's avatar

Hi Sue, I always appreciate you sharing your authentic self and we know too well that we all go through ups and downs. Thanks for these thoughts and tips. I'm trying harder to be just me but sometimes other things take over! Hope you're feeling better now.

Deb #Teamwwwhimsy

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Sue Women Living Well After 50's avatar

Thank you, Deb. You are always so supportive of me and I think you are very genuine and authentic. The best friend anyone could have. xx

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Lydia c lee's avatar

#WWWHimsy

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Lydia c lee's avatar

I don't think I really know how to be anything other than me, the good and the bad. Not confidence, just jumbled thinking. (As I mentioned re TOAD, I'm beginning to wonder if I have ADHD)

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Sue Women Living Well After 50's avatar

You are vibrant and wonderful, Lydia. I can feel it whenever I read your posts or your comments. Don’t change! x

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Julie Jordan Scott's avatar

You are singing our collective song! This morning out on my before sunrise walk - simply because I love being outside early in the morning - I was so content taking photos and moving my body... granted my walk was more about breathing and admiring the scenery... and wow, it felt great before I returned to my writing desk. Me, just being me, enjoying this precise life. So great to "meet" you!

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Sue Women Living Well After 50's avatar

Thank you Julie and it is lovely to 'meet' you. I'm looking forward to following your contributions and getting to know you. What a beautiful way to start the day - early and taking in the natural surroundings. Perfect! x

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Jennifer Jones's avatar

I love your thoughts in this post Sue. I’ve spent most of my life feeling like I’m not enough. Since reaching 70 I no longer care about that. I’m happy now to be who I am. It’s a relief to have that load off my mind.

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Marsha's avatar

I love this. I'm going to share it with my sister-in-law who just got off the phone with me sharing how awful her parents and brother made her feel about herself.This is the message she needs to hear!

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