This is just a reminder for all my little overthinkers out there. The awkward exchange with the cashier earlier today? The presentation where you forgot to say that one thing you wanted to say? The goal that took a week longer than you wanted?

No one else thought it was a failure. No one was upset with you, no one was inconvenienced, and no one thinks anything is wrong with you. You did your best, and it was enough.

Don’t get me wrong – other people’s opinions aren’t the most important thing in the world. But it’s worth asking if our harsh self-criticism is justified. If no one else thought it was a failure, and we’re making ourselves miserable with over analyzing….is that really what we want to do? Learn what you can, but let it go. No one else is worked up. If you did your best then your next job is enjoying life. That’s what matters right now, not rehashing the past.

I know you take things really seriously most of the time. I know you wanted to do it perfectly and things often don’t go according to plan. But just know everyone else thought it was okay. You’re not a failure. You get another chance tomorrow, and even if you flub that one it’s okay too. You are your own harshest critic, but you can give yourself some slack now if you want to. 

Further reading: If this post resonated with you then I strongly recommend looking up Kristin Neff on YouTube. She’s a researcher in Self Compassion and has done a lot of great work that helped me be more kind to myself. And it’s a lot easier to reach your goals and enjoy life when you aren’t tearing yourself down all the time. I just want you to enjoy the time you have.

Wishing you all the best,

Matthew