Fucking Awesome

You are.

Going through boxes, I found something I wrote years ago in a workshop.

We had been instructed to answer the prompt “You’re Fucking Awesome Because…”

Now I normally hate this kind of thing. But I remember not wanting to be the only jerk who wouldn’t participate. So, even though it felt like pulling teeth, I wrote. For what felt like forever. I think the timer was set for 10 minutes. I didn’t want to write more than a line or two but everyone else looked like they were writing a ton. I felt pressure and kept going.

All these years later, I was apprehensive as I began reading my responses. And then I found myself grinning.

Because everything I wrote was true.

And the reminder was energizing.

So, I’m inviting you to answer this prompt for yourself. Set a timer for 10 minutes and have at it.

I’m going to share my responses as an example. That makes me totally uncomfortable, but it’s only fair I show my vulnerability if I’m asking you to be the same.

I’m also hoping my very long list encourages you to write a very long list for yourself.

Because I know you’re fucking awesome.

You’re Fucking Awesome Because…

Dear Anne,

You are fucking awesome because:

You are not perfect. But you love yourself anyway.

You are kind.

You are fierce.

You share love easily.

You see, you hear, you notice. And you don’t keep it to yourself.

You are emotional and intellectual. And you know the difference.

You strive to be part of something bigger than yourself. Always.

You forget important things. And you apologize.

You show up in love.

You shine bright.

And shine light on others.

You are grateful.

You’re a good mother. Most of the time.

You’re a good wife. Most of the time.

You’re a good daughter-in-law. All of the time.

You’re not always a good friend. But you are when asked.

You’re an amazing coach.

You are a mirror. Which isn’t always a good thing. But it’s fucking awesome when it is.

You eat chocolate, dance, love, work, play, love your body and your mind.

And you remember to feed both.

PS. Sharing our answers with each other in the workshop was also really powerful. Consider doing this exercise with someone else — or at least saying your answers aloud to yourself. I’d love to hear what you experience!