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YOU are your own best friend -- not anyone else

As much as we might say we love to help and be around others, we can't truly care for other people until we feel that way about ourselves. And even once we get to that point, we're the only ones we can always reply upon.

Whenever you feel a little down and have the urge to reach out to someone to brighten your mood, don't bother. Stop for a second and think about great things you yourself have achieved or experienced, whether it was to rescue a litter of kittens, spend a week in China, earn a promotion, graduate with highest honors, or land a date with the most attractive girl in school.

We are fully capable of cheering ourselves up by ruminating on our best qualities and talents, whatever those may be. In my case, I value that I am humble, non-judgmental, romantic, introspective, and fiercely passionate about learning new things. What's more, unlike those around me, I take great pleasure in reading and writing as much as humanly possible.

Only you can determine and understand your innermost thoughts, feelings, and desires. You have only yourself to depend on in the face of life's toughest challenges. When you love yourself, you're in a better mood, your self-esteem shoots up, and any negative comments directed at you have no effect on you other than to cause you to lose all respect for the person making them.

When you look back on the many great things you've accomplished in your life, realize that they all have one common thread -- you. Sure, we can often credit one or more people for lending a hand, but your hard work and persistence allowed you to see it through.

In sum, though you may call Bob or Barbie your best friend, you are ultimately responsible for realizing your own dreams and attaining happiness. Give yourself the credit you deserve, and do not become dependent on others to feel satisfied with your life.






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