I Value Me for a Better World #WriteAPageADay

I have started reading books lately and have set an attainable goal of 1 book a month. In January, I had already read 3 books. In February, I will be on my 2nd one. My daughter is a moody reader. Her interest lies more in creative work; she likes to draw and make puppets. To give her company, I have started colouring and other artwork. She enjoys doing that with me. 

I also encourage her to make her own sandwiches and juices. Lately, she has even been allowed to make dosa, idli, appam, and paranthas only when I or her baba is there to supervise. She has been taught to clean her dishes, polish her shoes, and do her table and wardrobe when required. 

Whenever I write in my journal or blog, I insist she compete with me to find out who can write the most. Sometimes, she finds it interesting, and most of the time, she runs away and prefers to play with her friends. 

I took the time to write about these mundane activities because I wanted everyone to know that is what every parent worldwide is doing. And that is the key to valuing your own self. For me, valuing ourselves first is the most important learning one should be aware of. If I can raise my own child to value herself, she, in turn, will pass it on to others. Valuing ourselves also makes us value others, improving our relationships. 

The big question is how to value ourselves?

1. Learning basic skills: Learning basic skills such as cooking, cleaning, fixing small things, and other daily home-based work will let us be self-sufficient in times of need and keep us active and present. 

2. Take up some hobbies: Hobbies are a great way to learn and work on new skills. One can take up any hobby at any age. Reading, writing, gardening, artwork, crafting -anything that makes us happy. 

3. Self-Care: This is the most important thing to follow. Taking care of ourselves is very necessary. Eating well, exercising, and nurturing good habits are part of self-care. Mental health is also part of our health, so we should be careful about that.

4. Learning to say NO: I am still working on this. It is necessary, but some of us struggle to do it. It is ok to say no to requests and work that one does not want to do without being rude. 

5. Celebrating oneself: Being happy is a choice. If we do not find anything to be pleased about, going out in nature and finding a rare bird or even getting a glimpse of the beautiful sunset view can bring us happiness. 

I know it's easier said than done. But how do we work on it if we do not have a vision? I am trying to do it myself. If my daughter or someone finds it helpful, I know I have added some value to someone. Who knows, that may lead to a better future!!

This blog post is a part of #WriteAPageADay from Blogchatter.