What do you think of when you think of unicorns? Do you see them as mystical and magical creatures? As a symbol of uniqueness? Or do you think of your childhood? We all interpret words differently. To me unicorns are mystical but they also signify uniqueness. I think about them in a different way to what you do. But this isn’t a post about unicorns. it’s about how you interpret things differently to other people.
In all my posts I always try to give you an example of how I may interpret something or what I have done in the past particularly regarding the topic. Today my post will be a little different, I won’t be giving any examples and here is why.
I have listed 5 words below which will mean different things to us all. I want you to explore these words and think about what images, feelings, thoughts and ideas come up for you.
- Self Care
- Wellbeing
- Nature
- Journey
- Support
Feel free to grab a pen and paper or use your phone to jot down notes. Remember there are no right or wrong answers. These notes will be unique to you.
Now look at the words and pick one word to describe your relationship with that area. This could be tricky but go with your gut on the words that come up, you may get one word or a few sentences. Try not to censor yourself and remember this is all about you so whatever you write down is correct.
Looking at the words again, is there anything within those areas you are currently doing that doesn’t truly resonate with you? It may be something you know it is good for you but actually you really don’t like it and are going through the motions. Or maybe all your friends are doing it and you don’t want to miss out or feel you should be enjoying it too. Make your list.
Rewrite the words on another bit of paper. Now think of an activity you could do for each of the 5 areas that will bring more joy into your life and help to fulfil that area, perhaps you already do a lot and want to do more, if that’s the case then write down when you could fit this in.
Looking over what you have noted in any of the answers, did anything surprise you? Is there anything you would like to do differently or even incorporate more of into your life? Did any of them make you draw a blank and really struggle to write something down? Perhaps that word just doesn’t resonate with you. Is there an alternative you could use to get your thoughts flowing?
We see and hear words all the time, but we often don’t think about them too deeply. The words above are used so often and there are many ideas out there of what we can do in each of these areas to feel good about ourselves when we need it most. However, taking a moment to actually sit down, pay attention and take notes, you may be surprised by what comes up for you.
If you were to do this exercise again but instead of your thoughts and feelings, you write down what you think is expected of you in each of the areas by society/family/friends/partners then you may be surprised by the difference.
We think we should do things, behave or think in a certain way. But that isn’t going to help anyone. You being you is the most important way to be. Your uniqueness is to be celebrated and you never know who you may inspire just by being the incredible person that you are. Be your own unicorn!
I always give examples when I do posts like these but I feel this is all about you and your thoughts and feelings. I certainly don’t want to be putting my thoughts/words or ideas into your head, as you may reflect on what you have written and think you are wrong but you are most definitely right.
Another exercise you can do with these words is to think about:
- Who are the people in your life within these areas?
- What is it you like or dislike in each area?
- When do you get the most out of the areas or is there a time you prefer to be focusing on these areas?
- Where do these activities in the areas take place?
- Why do you think these areas are important in your life?
- How do you incorporate a little of all into each day?
Our thoughts, feelings and interpretations are all valid. Regardless of how different they are to the person next to you, your partner or friend. This exercise is about not being afraid to say what is on your mind or in your head and know it is valid.
Take care and have a great week.
Love Emma xx
Wellbeing with Relaxing Lavender 