Sunday, March 17, 2013

Don't Label Me


Sticks and stones can break my bones but words will never hurt me. I remember reciting that as a child whenever a playmate would call me names. Growing up and being labeled negatively is hurtful. No one likes to be the recipient of negative comments.

Throughout our lives we are "labeled" by well meaning individuals. The labels given to us by parents, siblings, friends, teachers, bosses, etc., contribute to the inner dialog we have with ourself. You're too skinny, overweight, too short, too tall, not smart enough, you don't have what it takes, etc.

What happens when you begin to believe and internalize these labels? When you start supporting the labels, you make them your "truths". You carry these truths with you until you decide differently.

Walt Disney was told as a teen that he wasn't creative and had no imagination. He ignored the comments. When he got older, he created Disneyworld and Disneyland. Lucille Ball was told that she had no acting skills. She ignored the comments and ended up becoming a successful comedienne and star of the hit TV show, I love Lucy.

Don't buy into the "baloney" that others will sling your way. You are not how others may perceive you. Know your own value by discovering what's in you. Get rid of negative chatter by keeping your inner chatter positive. That is the only way to peel off the labels that have stuck to you.  

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