Motivation Monday: Be Real

Megan - a friend, sister and someone that is always real.

With Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, social media and an age that traditional communication is seemingly by the wayside, the concept of being "you" is starting to get lost...

As I get older and our society becomes faster paced, I've sadly encountered friends, foes and acquaintances that are just not real. Or, they are scared to be themselves. They lie - about their plans, their life, their intentions and who they are to themselves and to others. Why?

Okay, we have all told a white lie. Or exaggerated a story or two. Heck, we are human. But it's a different story when people incessantly lie about the most inconsequential things. And I think the root of it is lack of appreciation for the beautiful people they are or can become.

So, here are 30 things to appreciation about being...well, you! Thanks to Tina Buddha!

The Good Things You Do for You:

1. You let yourself learn new things, which helps you grow and contribute to the world.
2. You do good things for your body, like exercising and eating healthy foods (even if not everyday).
3. You honor your life by making healthcare a priority.
4. You take time away from work to simply be, which allows you to feel balanced.
5. You bounce back from bad days and disappointments.
6. You do what’s right for you, even if it’s not easy to say no to other people (and even if you occasionally people please).
7. You choose to be around people who make you feel good about yourself.
8. You work toward goals that make you feel passionate and purposeful.
9. You smile, which benefits both you and the people around you.
10. You give yourself the sleep you need to feel energized and balanced each day (even you sometimes need to get better sleep).

The Good Things You Do for Other People:

1. You have good intentions.
2. You accept people for who they are and try to keep an open mind.
3. You make people laugh, whether you have a dry humor, an acerbic wit, or a caricature-like personality.
4. You listen to the people when they need an ear.
5. You’re compassionate toward other people.
6. You make selfless decisions to look out for the people you love, even if not always.
7. You forgive people when they make mistakes, even if sometimes it’s hard.
8. You vocalize it when you notice something you value, admire, or appreciate in someone else.
9. You help other people reach their potential.
10. You’re honest with people, even if sometimes vulnerability feels scary.

The Good Things You Do for the World:

1. You care about your work and you do it passionately.
2. You want to make a difference.
3. You vote to create positive change.
4. You recycle to preserve our natural resources.
5. You choose not to litter.
6. If you’re a parent, you’re shaping the next generation.
7. You give back, whether that means volunteering, donating old clothes, or simply helping a stranger in need.
8. You call for help when you see something potentially hazardous.
9. You teach something valuable to someone every day, whether you realize it or not.
10. You make positive changes in yourself—and being the change you want to see is the best way to change the world.

So next time you find yourself in a rut, bad place or spilling out a lie, think back at the 30 things you do for you, others and the world! And be real.