I am SO Incredible!

I have just had one of the best days in a long time. Today, we had our dreaded "affirmations" class at the training center. I had heard from a girl whose mother had taken the program that this was the class during which Peter, our boisterous CEO, makes people cry. Many people in our class wanted to skip it, but none of us knew just when it was coming. Part of me was leery, but part of me said "Bring it on!"

Class started with Peter going on about how we need to convince ourselves about our good qualities before we could be successful, and in doing so, we need to address what we consider our shortcomings. Halfway through the class, he wanted us to, on a completely volunteer level, tell the class what was holding us back and why. What came out were stories ranging from "I'm young and nobody takes me seriously" to full out abuse. Two women in our class were brought to tears, and I think a lot of us who heard their stories were close to crying for them, too. Peter, who is often intimidating, though someone I think I would enjoy as a sarcastic, challenging friend, changed his role so amazingly - he was practically a therapist, and so understanding and kind. It wasn't at all what I had expected from "the class that makes you cry." I could see just how important it was to get it all out that I vowed I would go (despite the fact that, earlier in class, when he asked me an obscure question, I slunk down and pretended to be shier than I really am so I wouldn't have to answer it).

So here's my history with Peter - from day one, he thought I was this shy little thing, and it's been my goal to prove him wrong. I think he's rather fascinated by my outgoing spurts, and it's a fact that when I have something to say, he stops everything so I can do so. It's really quite cool! I've given the class a schpiel on my Masters research, I've presented a purchase agreement flawlessly, and now I opened up in front of the class.

In all honesty, it wasn't very hard. I've formed strong relationships with most everyone in the room, and I feel incredibly comfortable with them. So after all their stories, I felt, though mine wasn't quite as heart wrenching as some, I shouldn't have a problem opening up.

I was the last person to go that day, and Peter seemed really eager to hear what I had to say. I spoke quickly because we only had a few minutes to go, and I was as outgoing as he'd ever seen me. I told the class about my weird childhood, having no friends, although a supportive family, and how, because of that, I had a slew of issues including the need to be liked by everyone (I liken myself to a golden retriever running around to be pet...haha), fear of silences, and especially fear of sounding stupid or saying something offensive because I don't like silences and blurt out whatever comes to mind. He had me write down five qualities (six with another one that my classmate Patsy added) that were positive, and pointed out how none of those would be a reason to not be likable, and the WHOLE class chimed in with how likable I am (and Patsy even said my personality is something she would look for in a best friend!), and I was left with such an overwhelming feeling of support and acceptance that just made me float out of there. It was like hypnosis all over again. I could use these affirmations every day - I would be unbeatable. And they're absolutely right...I have an awesome personality (once I let the real me out) with many attributes including my six: Intelligence, compassion, empathy, loyalty, and competence (which I sometimes question, but I'm sure is true). I felt so good after I left, and I know I can just take on the world!

So speaking of taking on the world, I have a $2.5 million dollar house I'm going to go preview now! Have a great weekend!!