Why You Should Keep a "Feel-Good File"...

 

“I feel good, like I knew that I would.”---James Brown

　

Most of us don’t realize that our egos are under constant attack.

There are the subliminal messages we receive via the media and TV commercials.

You know: the daily ones that suggest that we need to lose weight, whiten our smiles, maintain our youth, be better parents, and strive for “bouncing and behavin’ hair.”

If you’re a creative artist, it can get even worse.
Adding insult to injury are the rejection letters from editors, negative comments from blog readers, (or lack of comments), and the sometimes biting book reviews regarding our work.

If you’re not strong, you’re bound to fold like a cheap tent.
And I should know. Over the last few months, I have had to contend with a barrage of frustrations and set-backs that have caused self-doubt and detours on the path to my dreams.
(Despite a career with many accomplishments.)

Like for instance, the one week, where I got 4 rejections in three days, on articles I submitted to various publications. Shortly thereafter, I agonized too, over falling short of my monthly income goals, and neglecting to cross off some of the resolutions that have resurfaced on my list, year after year.

So, here’s how I coped. I threw a “pity party”…no formal attire required. J
Then, a few weeks later, much to my surprise, while organizing my office, I came across some unexpected encouragement.

Tucked between papers and lists that needed tossing, were scores and scores of folders from successfully closed projects with clients, glowing testimonials, notes of thanks, and clips from publications that proudly displayed my work.
Things and situations that I had long forgotten.

It was “just what the doctor ordered.”
These visual reminders helped to provide a more balanced perspective.
I wasn’t where I wanted to be professionally, but I was certainly better off than I formerly realized.
I hadn’t given myself credit for all the things I did right; I only looked at my perceived failures.

Chances are, you do too. Far too often, the rejections, criticism, negative comments from editors, readers, or even your mate, continue to play loudly in your mind like the sound track to your favorite movie.

Am I right here?
In order to mentally push forward, and go the distance, a paradigm shift is in order.
And here’s the good part: it doesn’t require a major “make-over” on your part.
The solution is as simple as a file folder.

That’s right. Compiling a “feel-good file” is inexpensive, easy and won’t cause the weight gain or guilt of chocolate or booze.

Here’s why a feel-good file is effective:

• It serves as a visual reminder of all your strengths, your progress, and past achievements.
• Unlike a journal, you can compile an array of things to affirm your awesomeness.
• There’s no risk of having it lost or compromised, like computer files.
• You can treat it like an art project: get creative. Choose your favorite color, decorate the exterior, add glitter, glue a picture of your book cover to the outside, or whatever suits your fancy.

Here’s what a “feel good file” might potentially contain:

• Receipts, Paypal payment confirmation, or royalty statements from books sold, payments from publications or creative services rendered 
• Testimonials or letters of thanks from former and current clients
• Emails from fans and followers expressing how much they enjoy your newsletter, articles or blog
• A copy of a traditional book contract you landed
• Photos from a fun vacation you financed from your writing proceeds
•  Clips from features you’ve had published in magazines
• Positive book reviews
• Positive affirmations

Get the idea here? Try it. You just might find that a "feel-good" file is just what you need to lift your spirits, keep you motivated, and elevate you to greater heights this year!

Thoughts? What would yours contain?