Applaud Yourself

My one year old does a cute thing. Actually, he does many cute things, but I wanted to tell you about this certian one. Whenever he does something good or helpful--hands me the TV remote, puts something in the trash can, puts a toy away, etc.--he claps for himself.

When he was very little and would learn a new skill or do something we liked we would all clap for him and say, "Yeah!" So he has come to associate applause with success. He knows that when he accomplishes something he deserves recogonition.

Of course, as he grows up he will learn that not everyone is as excited about his abilities as he is, but I hope he never looses the ability to applaud himself. Knowing when he has done the right thing, reached a goal, or changed a bad habit in his life will help him to improve. The ability to congratulate himself for those things, even if no one else does, will spur him on to bigger, better, and more challenging achievements.

So the next time you reach a goal take a moment to applaud yourself. You may want to do it privately, but maybe not! Let the world see you succeed! Maybe you will inspire someone!

Yeah for You! (and Me!),
Paula