Gordon W. Allport

bupot1, a photo by snogglethorpe on Flickr.

from The Individual and His Religion
published 1950, Macmillan, NY


'The neurotic who learns to laugh at himself may be on the way to self-management, perhaps to cure.'

 

The Road Less Travelled

by M. Scott Peck, first published 1978

from Introduction to the 25th Anniversay Edition

'Nonetheless, perhaps because it was needed, despite its flaws, there is no question in my mind that as I wrote the book in the solitude of my cramped little office I had help. I really cannot explain that help, but the experience of it is hardly unique. Indeed, such help is the ultimate subject of the book itself.'

Published 2008 by Rider, UK.

One step at a time

Stepping Stones and Anchor Bars,Tarmachan, Perthshire, a photo by uplandaccess on Flickr.

Believe it is possible, whatever you want to do.
If you want to be a portrait painter, for instance, don't dismiss it as 'a crazy idea' that 'someone like me couldn't do'. Research it, meet with those who have done it and make a plan. See where you'll need help and be open to accepting it. Turn your ambition into something achievable. 

Question your inner critic.
We all have one. Ask it to be specific - for example 'What, exactly, is frightening me about being a portrait painter?' And then, if necessary, ignore it - especially blanket judgments like 'You're a loser; you'll never be able to do that'. Nothing silences your inner critic more than action. 

Monitor and manage your thoughts.
They aren't always accurate. Be wary of doom saying.

Set small, realistic goals.
Goals that you can actually achieve, rather than major target you'd like to set yourself. And do what you say. Doing something small is better than doing nothing. Create many little 'arrival points' on your way to your major goal. 

Monitor your progress.
Acknowledge your achievements. 

The Confidence Workout 
Michelle Landy

http://michellelandy.com/