Day 15 of 31 Days of Wellbeing…

This is probably the hardest mental activity to do so far. We are often told to make a list of our strengths as part of a wellbeing challenge, but in Fearne Cotton’s ‘Happy: Journal’ book, I was asked to do something completely opposite, which was scary but actually a useful activity!

Yes, I am asking you to think about your imperfections. Be honest about what you think your shortcomings are. However, a couple of rules! Firstly, remember you are your worst critic. If your friend was to make a list of your shortcomings, they would probably struggle to think of one, so don’t freak out if your mental list of flaws is long.

Secondly, as you think of an imperfection, try to make peace with it. Accept that you are not perfect. Does anybody actually like a person with no flaws? Does that person even exist? It isn’t a person I could get on with! Flaws are relatable, remember. Try to think of a positive point from the flaw as well, e.g. perhaps you are over-emotional but that could also be a sign that you care, which is lovely!

Here are a few from my list:

• Oversensitive (positive: I am a big softie really who cares too much)
• Passive-agressive (positive: I hate confrontation and avoid scary fights)
• Quiet in big groups and meetings (positive: I listen well and it would be a problem if everybody in a group is loud and overbearing)
• Untoned thighs (positive: I am very relatable, a lot of women suffer from this from what I hear!)

I will stop there…you don’t want to go on and on with this list because that will eventually make you feel rubbish! But think of 4-5 and the key to healthy wellbeing is to learn to accept these imperfections and see them in a more positive light.