When it seems the world is completely off kilter and there isn’t anyone or anything that makes you feel like you have anything to offer, the best way to feel worthy is to surround yourself with people who value you.

I’m not sure if it’s my 41st birthday, or the new high energy (a.k.a. hyper-anxious) horse I just acquired, or the stress and chaos of the very-extended time my children have been home due to the Corona virus, but lately I have not felt worthy or successful. I have found myself questioning even my dinner choices and frantic over the potential of planning activities with family and friends. Apparently, my passion for planning has been hindered by the fear of making a wrong choice or exposing everyone to a potentially deadly situation with one penciling in of my calendar or preparation of turkey tortillas.

What I really needed were the wise words of Denzel Washington.
“If you hang around 5 confident people, you will be the 6th. If you hang around with 5 intelligent people, you will be the 6th. If you hang around with 5 millionaires, you will be the 6th. If you hang around with 5 idiots, you will be the 6th.”

 

I had failed to surround myself with those who made me smarter, stronger, happier, and healthier. As I struggled with my frustrations, I made a few phones calls and sent some texts. Without realizing it, I took Denzel’s advice…

I had breakfast with friends who are beautiful, smart, and appreciate me.

I called on two friends who know horses and asked for guidance and reassurance.

I commented on and saved positive posts, like one my friend Jeff posted about letting go of the “can’t” and letting in the “can” of “I can do it.”

I sought out people that added to my confidence and self-worth. Letting their positive energy increase my own was the best medicine for warding off my worries.

So if you are feeling particularly down, troubled, or without worth, please remember to seek out those who know what motivates you, those who are successful at putting things into perspective, or those who love and support you with healthy advice and attention. Check who or what you are surrounding yourself with.

Are they positive, productive, and passionate about the same things you are? Do the people or experiences you expose yourself to offer growth and guidance with healthy challenges? Is there good in your surroundings or is there doubt, shame, grumpiness, or selfishness? Check your surroundings.

While I many not be the queen of confidence, I can attest to the power of positive people. Do yourself and those around you a favor. Gather with those who bring good to your life and build on the joy you provide one another.

By: Melanie A. Peters

P.S. If you happen to know 5 millionaires looking for a new buddy, I am available.