Ah, the ever-present "should." It lurks in the shadows of our minds, a tiny dictator whispering "shoulds" in our ear until we feel like we're drowning in a sea of obligations, both real and imagined. This little monster can wreak havoc on our self-esteem, creativity, and overall well-being. But fear not, fellow travelers on the path to self-discovery! Today, we're going to expose this "Should-Monster" for the paper tiger it truly is.
These "shoulds" are like a self-inflicted prison sentence, constantly reminding us of all the ways we're falling short. It's a recipe for self-loathing and stress, leaving us feeling like deflated balloons compared to the impossibly perfect versions of ourselves we've conjured. Or of the perfection we imagine that others have effortlessly obtained.
But guess what? There's a way to break free and silence the inner "Should-Monster" once and for all. Enter the magical world of "should statements" exercises, courtesy of Louise Hay who is the author of my current read: You Can Heal Your Life"
My Entrepreneurial "Should-Monster" Showdown:
As an entrepreneur, I've found myself battling a particularly vicious "Should-Monster." It whispers things like, "You should be making more money," "You should be working longer hours," and "You should be more successful." These "shoulds" are like a never-ending to-do list, always reminding me of where I'm falling short.
But Louise Hay has a powerful insight: these "shoulds" often stem from a deeper fear of not being good enough. When we follow each "should" with "why," we can uncover the underlying desire to feel whole and accepted.
As an entrepreneur, I've found myself battling a particularly vicious "Should-Monster." It whispers things like, "You should be making more money," "You should be working longer hours," and "You should be more successful." These "shoulds" are like a never-ending to-do list, always reminding me of where I'm falling short.
But Louise Hay has a helpful observation: these "shoulds" often stem from a deeper fear of not being good enough. When we follow each "should" with "why," we can uncover the underlying desire to feel whole and accepted.
The "Should" to "Why" Transformation:
So, I decided to put this theory to the test. I sat down with my journal and listed all the "shoulds" that were plaguing me. Then, I asked myself "why" for each one.
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- Should: I should be making more money.
- Why: Because I'm afraid of not being able to provide for my family.
- Should: I should be working longer hours.
- Why: Because I'm afraid of failing as an entrepreneur.
- Should: I should be more successful.
- Why: Because I'm afraid of not being worthy of love and respect.
As I delved deeper into these "whys," I realized that the "shoulds" were just masks for my underlying fears and insecurities. By uncovering these deeper desires, I was able to see that my "Should-Monster" was simply a misguided attempt to protect myself.
Releasing The Weight Moment:
Seeing these "shoulds" laid bare in my journal was like witnessing the "Should-Monster" exposed in all its ridiculous glory. Suddenly, the power it held over me seemed to diminish.
Instead of feeling shackled by obligation, I saw "shoulds" for what they truly were: possibilities, not dictates. Maybe I could make more money, or maybe I could focus on enjoying the journey. Maybe I could be more successful, or maybe I could celebrate my accomplishments.
This exercise wasn't about erasing ambition or responsibility. It was about reclaiming my power to choose. It was about recognizing that "shoulds" are often external pressures masquerading as internal truths.
Your "Should-Monster" Awaits:
So, if you're tired of being bullied by your inner critic, I urge you to try this "should statements" exercise. You might be surprised by the "Should-Monster" you uncover, and the freedom that awaits when you silence it. Remember, you are the author of your story, not a prisoner to a list of "shoulds."
