You matter – put your best foot forward

Alexis Rae Baker

Dear Reader,

There are moments when we all struggle with depression, and I wanted to take today to let you know that you matter. Your life is important, and you have the strength to get through the challenges ahead.

I know this can be hard to believe, especially when we’re constantly reminded of what we haven’t accomplished (generally through social media and the false impressions that everyone else has life figured out). It’s tough to believe, at times, that we have something of value to offer when we aren’t Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos. Most of us will never reach the point where our names go down in history, and it can be very disheartening to feel like our contributions are irrelevant to the rest of the world.

But, your contributions aren’t irrelevant, not to the people around you. You have family, friends, and coworkers all depending on, relying on, and needing you. Everything you do matters to the people in your life. By choosing to be the best version of yourself, you inspire and aid others to do the same.

I know that, for me, making an impact has always been important. I want to change the world, but it took some major soul searching to realize that all change starts at home.

There’s a saying that we are all only six contacts away from any given person on the planet. So, while it feels like we need to make a big splash and change the lives of millions all at once, it’s the small changes you make in the lives of a few that are more likely to matter in the long run.

What you do every day that’s what matters. The lives you change and inspire in your interactions are what spread your influence. It’s through our everyday lives that we can all find the meaning and purpose that sometimes seems so elusive.

It matters whether or not you’re in a good mood. It matters whether or not you feel taken care of. It matters whether or not you feel like the world is falling apart around you.

You don’t know what actions you take or what words you say that could wind up changing someone’s life, so you must take the time to ensure you are putting your best foot forward every day.

Take the time you need to present your best self to others. When you’re upset, find ways to make yourself feel better. Practice the art of forgiveness. Give yourself a break from the constant judgment. Become the person you’ve always dreamed of being so that you can allow and inspire others to do the same.

If you want to change the world, if you want to make things better, this is the best way to go about it. Every life you change can change another. Don’t assume that you don’t matter because you do. Everything you do matters.

Remember this; no matter who you are, you mean the world to someone. You are loved, and you are wanted.

Know that, no matter what happens in your life, you have the strength you need to get through it and the network to get the help you need. I know life can be hard, but you are not alone.

~ Lexis

Lexis is Alexis Rae Baker. She writes from her home in Olympia. Got a question about life, relationships, spirit?  Visit her at lexisrae.com or write to her at Lexis@theJOLTnews.com