Respecting Yourself

Dear Cotillion Students,

I hope this email finds you well and that you have had a wonderful Spring Break. 

This week, I want to talk a little more about showing ourselves respect. Ladies and gentlemen know the importance of respecting themselves. They know that respect is empowering and helps them to be more cognizant of themselves and others. As teenagers, and as people in general, we are often not as respectful of ourselves as we should be. Your posture, your thoughts, your actions and your words, should all show respect for YOU! You are unique, you are wonderful, and you deserve to be respected. 

Posture – (again!) When you stand up straight and hold your head erect you are telling the world – and yourself! – that you are someone important and that you are proud of yourself. Added bonus: When you have good posture it will increase your confidence and your courage.

Thoughts – It is important to give yourself the affirmation that you deserve. Recognize the great things about you and see the things that you do well. When you do something well, or are making an effort to learn something new, when you keep working at something that is difficult, acknowledge it. See yourself for who you really are and all that you can become. Believe in yourself! 

Words – If someone says something unkind to you, choose not to internalize it, it is usually because they are not feeling very good about themselves and need some way of venting or deflecting. And be very careful to show yourself the respect that you deserve by not saying unkind things about yourself or putting yourself down. We all make mistakes – it’s part of being human. Do not let your mistakes define you. You define you! 

(I know, I know – I’ve already said this, but important things are worth repeating!)

Actions – Be your best self. 

• Choose to act today like the person that you want to become. 
• When you have a bad day or make a mistake, apologize and then forgive yourself. Be careful to not expect perfection. 
• Take care of your body. Eat well, exercise and get the sleep that you need to show your body the respect that it deserves. 
• Learn about yourself and the gifts and talents that you have so that you can further develop them. 
• Learn all that you can so that you become the very best version of ‘you’.  
• Choose good friends – those that show you the respect that you deserve.
• Make good choices. Even when others are making poor choices, make good choices. Your choices show that you respect yourself and your values.

This week really think about how you are showing respect for yourself. It is easier to treat others with kindness and respect, when you are showing kindness and respect to yourself.

Have a wonderful week – you deserve it!

Love,

Mrs. Achiu