Mentorship Session Diaries: Make a Change

Written By: Paul VanderGriendt, Event Management Coordinator Mentorship Session Diary. Entry 25

We all grew up under different circumstances and have a different view of ourselves as individuals. Some of us may have had a positive outlook but feel like it has been influenced by internalizing or believing what we hear from others. Sometimes our mindset can be heavily influenced by positive or negative thoughts, but we tend to hear the negative ones the loudest. It is easy to become discouraged and doubt ourselves when we put too much weight on the negative words of others and forget to believe in ourselves.

Being intentional about who we surround ourselves with can be a big part of that. It’s not uncommon for us as individuals to need reassurance about who we are and how we bring value to every situation. Sometimes a fog develops in our life that makes it difficult for us to remember who we are, what we have accomplished and what makes us great. Negative thoughts are always going to creep in, and it takes work for us to remind ourselves to be proud and authentic and know that we are capable. Each of us has the opportunity to take charge of our life and make the right choices in order to become the person we want to be. It’s also important to trust in people who care about us and see our potential. Sometimes we need to believe in ourselves, the same way others believe in us.

Sometimes shifting our perspective can be difficult. It may take time and patience, but when we put the effort in and strive to stay positive, we will be able to achieve better outcomes. Thinking about our experiences as opportunities to grow and get better, instead of something that is difficult or that we aren’t good at, is one way to switch up our perspective and have a more positive outlook. Hard times don’t last, but they can build resilience that will.