Two decades ago, I started keeping a file of Nice Notes, Affirmations, and Love Letters. If you struggle with low self esteem, this can be a fun way to start recognizing and boosting your own self worth.
Not familiar with this type of file? I wasn’t either until someone introduced the idea to me. Over time, my Nice Notes File has morphed into different containers . . . a Word document on my computer . . . a manila file folder in my file cabinet . . . a cloth-covered box . . . a metal lock box . . . clear vinyl sheets in a three ring notebook . . . and, now, back to a prettier expanding file folder.
The container might be important. (I have found that if it’s pretty and really attractive, I do refer to it more often.) However, it’s what’s inside that is most important. Here’s are some suggestions about what to put in yours . . . .
- Nice notes from past clients, friends and colleagues – anything positive that clients have written to you about you,
- Affirmations that help you to focus on your positive traits and characteristics,
- A list of your strengths, gifts, and natural abilities,
- Thank you notes that you have received,
- Kind and supportive words that have been said to or about you,
- Evaluations from employers and students (the good stuff only!),
- Accomplishments – both personal and professional,
- Ways you have made a positive difference in other people’s lives,
- Holiday and greeting cards,
- Teacher’s comments, report cards and evaluations (remember, just the good stuff!),
- Audio / visual / print media and press releases pertaining to you,
- Complimentary things that were said to you (Write them down on receipts at restaurants, napkins in the car, and little scraps of paper- anything just to remember them!),
- Resume / vita, and
- Love letters from current / past partners.
Now that you’ve got an idea about what to put in your Nice Notes, Affirmations, and Love Letters File, here’s how you use it . . . .
Schedule a time on your calender to regularly pull out your Nice Notes File and review it. This is a time to reflect on all that is special about you. Take in all the positive things that are true about you.
Tags: Self Esteem