Be self-reliant

This week I wanted to write about, and give you a few ways to develop your Self-Reliance, after all :  
"Self -Reliance is the only true road to freedom and being one's own person is its own reward"- Patricia Sampson
What is strange is that as a coach, I spend most of my time with clients helping them to be just this, so they don't need me. Am I doing myself out of a job? No not at all, my job is to help you develop your self-reliance and people need support with this skill.

Here is my initial master plan

1. Be your own best friend; treat yourself like your most treasured friend whom you respect and trust. Remember never to talk down to yourself, always talk yourself up. Again speak to yourself as you would your very best friend.
2. Talk less; "those who know don't speak, those who speak don't know" The Tao. Self-reliant people are powerful, and powerful people talk less. They carefully think about bout what they want to say and articulate it concisely and clearly.
3. Keep your life private; Keep your own counsel and be very selective in the things you share with others. Don't open yourself or your world up to undermining comments, criticism and judgment.
4. Curb your neediness; This is not don't talk over things with friends this is more about not taking every small issue to someone else to be resolved. Instead, talk to yourself, be composed, and take responsibility for resolving your own inner turmoil.
5. Approve yourself; Stop talking to yourself or others about your little imperfections, these conversations weaken you and create a powerless person whose need for outside validation undermines any chance of a respectful relationship with yourself. always remember, you are far stronger than you think you are.

The Tip for this week  for this week is; Try to develop your Self-Reliance
Exercise
Take a pen and paper and answer these questions;

1. On a scale of 1-10, how much do I show faith in myself? 
2. When was the last time I made a major decision using my own judgement?
3. On a scale of 1-10, How much do I need other peoples approval?
4. On a scale of 1-10, how much do I like, respect and approve of myself?
5. When was the last time I took a risk that demonstrated faith and trust in myself, regardless what others thought?
6. What would my life look like if I backed myself 100 percent, trusted myself and didn't look for respect and trust from others?

Now for the next month practice the above masterplan and then start the question process again.
I know this can be a daunting prospect, so, if you need help to get started/going, please feel free to reach out. It won't cost you a thing, and I'd be happy to help.