Last Updated on May 2, 2022 by Chin Yi Xuan
Hey everyone.
I went through a super tough time last week battling against my self-doubt and productivity at work.
Working on my own means things like uncertainties and self-doubt will always be part of my life – and I acknowledge that.
But last week’s dose of self-doubt was way more intense than what I’d usually feel. Something beyond my coping mechanism.
If you were to ask me, it was due to the anxieties over my own career choices, ability, personal finances, and future – all the usual stuff that everyone worries about.
But that’s not the point.
The point is, it felt extremely heavy. Kind of like me dragging bags of sand while trying to sprint through the week.
Now, I do not claim to be a stress expert. But I believe what I did will be helpful to you, if you are having a tough day/week:
I Count My Little Wins
Yes, even during tough times or downright shitty day, I count all the little wins that I scored throughout the day:
- +1 Wrote a paragraph of my article!
- +1 Replied to an important email!
- +1 Able to focus for 30 mins w/o using social media!
- +1 Jogged for 15 minutes!
- +1 Learned how to do things differently!
That’s 5 small wins in what seemed to be a bad day!
Yes, I may not be able to complete my intended article on that emotionally tough day, but hey, I managed to squeeze in a paragraph – not too shabby!
Here’s the thing:
Most often, we tend to get overly critical on ourselves during tough times.
What if, instead of going through a seemingly bad day with the heavy baggage on your shoulder, try counting all the little wins that you score – the things that you manage to achieve even though you are emotionally drained/exhausted?
During tough times, ESPECIALLY during tough times, every little win matters.
Because they really do.
Wishing you the best! 🙂
Yi Xuan
