Overpricing Ourselves vs Markdowns

"Life marks us all down, so it's just as well that we start out by overpricing ourselves." - Mignon McLaughlin, writer

I read this several times over and it stumped me at first.  I wasn't sure what I wanted to say about it as I began today's entry.  This quote brings me back to the days when I struggled desperately with defining who I was and giving myself credit for my own accomplishments.  There was never any danger of me overpricing myself, that's for sure.

My self-perception is not accurate.  I vacillate at times between thinking I'm the best to thinking I'm the worst - at anything and everything.  There doesn't seem to be any middle ground for me.  It's an "all or nothing" kind of feeling that is not always easy for me to shake off.  Now, I must admit, that I'm much better than I used to be.  I've come to recognize my talents and assets just a little bit more than I notice my faults and defects.  It used to be as if I was looking through a negative set of eyes.  But, through prayer and meditation, I've learned to be gentle with myself and that has led, in turn, to me having more self-esteem and gaining the ability to value what I have to offer.

Ultimately, I don't need to mark myself up or down.  God loves me as I am.  That brings me comfort and I'm grateful that He guides my life today.

Today I will remember I am worthy of all that is good in this life. I will release my negative thoughts about self. I am grateful to know this now.