Seeking Approval

The orange and rust-colored leaves and the chill in the air confirm that fall is officially here. I love this time of year. If only I could make it last and avoid the winter months that I know are just around the corner. One of my favorite things about fall is sweater season. I love the feeling of a warm sweater covering my chilled skin and the cozy, relaxed look that only a sweater can bring.

Ozzy, the sweetest rescue dog I have ever met, always seems cold, so I was excited to purchase his first sweater; after some online shopping, I decided to go with a lightweight fabric since winter is not officially here. I loved the dark blue color with spaceships in the background. I slipped it on, and it fit perfectly! I could tell Ozzy felt warm and cozy, but then he looked into my eyes with the question, "how do I look"? It seemed he wanted to relax into the moment but was unsure if he looked OK.

I was shocked. I mean, seriously, this little dog is so cute, and this blue space sweater only made him more adorable, but he wasn't sure and seemed to want confirmation before he could enjoy and relax. I decided it was time for a heart-to-heart with my little buddy. So I sat Ozzy in my lap, and we both snuggled and got comfortable.

Ozzy, you look so cute in your new sweater. It fits you perfectly and is unique and attractive, just like you. You are adorable no matter what you wear, and I love you for you, not your clothes, hair, or nails; I love you because your heart is so full of love, unconditional love. I love you because you are a great friend to everyone, and you accept me as I am with all my faults. Ozzy relaxed and smiled. I could see that he felt comfortable now in his new sweater. Now that he had my reassurance, He was confident that he looked OK.

No Need for Approval From Anyone: Accept Yourself

My moment with Ozzy made me realize that we all do this (well, most of us). We seek other people's approval before we can be happy with ourselves and our appearance. Imagine how much better we would feel if we did not do that. If we could decide for ourselves that we are enough, look good enough, and are happy without other people's approval?

I work on improving in this area of my life daily. When I look in the mirror:

• I tell myself that I am doing great and I am enough.
• I say and feel that I am grateful for my health and my body.
• I remind myself that I have great taste in clothing and my unique style.
• I believe that I am beautiful just the way I am
• I like my style
• I am grateful for all the things my body does for me, and I love my body
• I remind myself that I can still have room improve.
• I know that I have accepted myself for where I am right now in the moment.
• I want to lose some weight, but I still tell myself I love my body because I do.

This is a daily practice that has changed my life.Try it for yourself every day, and say it aloud!

Who's Business Is It Anyway?

I love this quote: "Other people's opinions are none of my business". I am not sure who the author is, but I heard Rachel Hollis say it, and it stuck with me. I know that I cannot please other people. Some people will like me; some will not; some will like my sweater, and some will not. It is none of my business. My opinion is all that matters. My opinion is the only thing that I can be sure of.

Be kind to yourself. You are kicking ass in life and improving every day. So, be happy, be cozy, and feel good in your sweater.

Stay Tuned,

Paula Marie is a published author, successful realtor, and entrepreneur. Paula's mission is to empower others to manage their time and mindsets to live an extraordinary life! With Paula's eight powerful tools and life planning strategies, you can create the life you truly desire.