I recently came across an old HONY post (a popular photoblog called Humans of New York, that shares stories of people from all over the world) and on one post, the comments section did something very cool. They took the quote that was featured and then turned into a mad lib.
It goes like:
“It seemed like I was doing something impossible. I’m not _______. I’m not _______. I don’t own a _______. I don’t even have a _______. But I am _______ and I’m f**ing _____________.”
I’ve learned to fill it out from time to time, when I’m feeling unmotivated or stressed by my goals. I’m constantly working on myself, challenging myself to new ideas and skills, but getting to these goals is not always easy. It’s hard, confusing, and I face failure many, many times. But when I’m feeling particularly lost and suffering from low self-confidence, this short activity helps to get me out of unproductive negative mindsets, and gives me the energy to work on uplifting my spirit.
As many people do, there are periods in my life when I constantly feel behind everyone else. I’m not understanding something fast enough, I’m not as successful as someone else my age, or I’m not as talented or skilled as the people around me. I doubt my choices and second-guess the way I invest my time.
But this little mad lib helps me realize that I’m doing okay, in fact, I’m doing excellent despite the obstacles that stand in my way.
It’s a very short exercise, but it’s effective and trains my brain for a growth mindset. By writing, I work on building resilience, which allows me to challenge myself to new and existing goals. So when you’re feeling a bit down about trying to get something done, or trying to reach some objective, realize that you’re doing okay, and you’re already amazing for trying to do what feels like the impossible.
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, advice, or thoughts– email me at kokumura@kakikata.space! I respond to every email I get!
Kind regards,
Kaki
