Wednesday

Welcome to Wednesday! Today, we're talking about:

• What you need to know about “positive” and “negative” emotions

• Ideas to embrace your individuality

• What to do when you feel stuck in a rut

• How our pets can help us practice self-care

What to Know About Positive and Negative Emotions

“Positive” and “negative” emotions often carry different reputations in our minds. We often associate “positive” emotions as “good” and “negative” emotions as “bad.”

However, the truth is that all emotions are technically neutral. Some just may be more comfortable than others.

And while these emotions may carry a positive or negative connotation in our minds, they all play an important role in how we experience and move through the world.

• “Positive” emotions: These help connect ideas, increase attention, and improve memory.

• “Negative” emotions: These can help signal threats and dangers, encouraging us to protect ourselves through heightened awareness. This may happen when we feel like boundaries have been crossed.

All of these emotions work together to help us evaluate our well-being.

While there are seasons where we may feel more “positive“ or “negative” emotions, tapping into those feelings can help us know how to better care for ourselves — including what is and isn’t working in our lives.

How to Embrace Your Individuality

Embracing our individuality is an incredible way to live more in line with our values and who we are.

However, we may sometimes shy away from what makes us unique in a move to blend in with those around us.

If you’re looking to embrace your individuality and who you are at your core, a great place to start is by noticing what sets you and others apart from one another. Rather than placing people into groups based on factors like their age (old/young), occupation, etc., and instead, focus on them as individuals and do the same for yourself!

This is a great way to embrace what makes us all stand out.

Acceptance can also play a powerful role in tapping into who you are. We may feel guilt, shame, or a need to hide certain parts of ourselves. However, by giving ourselves grace, we can live more authentically.

Give yourself permission to be yourself — and know that while some days may feel easier than others, you deserve to be exactly who you are!

Unlock Peace of Mind – Use FSA/HSA Dollars on Therapy with BetterHelp

Do you find yourself stuck in a loop of worry and self-doubt? You’re not alone. Millions struggle with these thoughts, but you don’t have to. BetterHelp therapists specialize in helping clients change unhelpful thinking patterns and build healthier habits. Answer a free 5-minute quiz to get matched with a therapist today and start therapy from your phone, computer, or through text. Plus, use your FSA/HSA dollars to cover therapy and enjoy 30% off your first three months. Don’t wait—take control of your mental health now.

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Thank you to BetterHelp for sponsoring Note To Self. 

How Our Pets Can Help Us Practice Self-Care

Not only are our pets amazing companions — they also help us consciously and unconsciously practice self-care!

• Boost our mood: 74% of pet owners reported a boost in mental health from pet parenting, a survey from the Anxiety and Depression Association of America found.

• Caring for others helps us care for ourselves: All of the acts of care we do for our pets — from feeding them to taking them to the vet — is a reminder to care for ourselves!

• Encourages us to move: Whether it’s a walk outside or playtime at home, our pets help us get in mindful and joyful movement that gives so many benefits to our minds and bodies!

• Is a source of comfort: From snuggling with our fur babies to helping spark connections with other humans, pets can be a great source of comfort.

Parting Thoughts

• ✅ True or False: False, self-care can have a profound and positive impact on mental health treatment and management of conditions.

• 🙋🏼‍♀️ Snapshot Of The Day: We'd love to see moments from our readers lives that they are proud of! If you recently accomplished an achievement, experienced a joyful moment, or are proud of a picture you have taken, be sure to capture it on camera and send it to us for a chance to be featured next week! 

• 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: While some emotions may be more comfortable to experience than others, remember that they are all important.

Enjoying Note to Self?

Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at [email protected]!