The Quiet Art of Cheering Yourself On
What a cardboard medal, a wise 8-year-old, and a quiet cuppa taught me about self-worth - Tales from the Oak Table 20/52
Becoming My Own Cheerleader
Life has been hurtling along at a rapid pace this May. In between celebrating my husband and children's achievements, I’ve found myself quietly wondering... what about me?
Most of the time, I’m perfectly content with my walks, gardening, and writing. I don’t feel a particular need for fanfare or accolades. But this week, our youngest and often wisest family member reminded me of something important.
Our 8-year-old daughter (whom we affectionately call Yoda for her unexpectedly sage wisdom) gave me some food for thought. She’s always noticing things others miss, and this week, she noticed me.
My husband and kids are brilliant at sharing what they’re doing, celebrating both big and little wins. I, on the other hand, tend to be quieter about my own milestones. As a content creator on social media, I often prefer to stay out of the spotlight and enjoy the balance of being a little more introverted, a little more behind the scenes.
Yet there I was this morning, walking the school run with a homemade medal around my neck; a gift from Yoda. A wobbly-cut circle of gold cardboard, declaring me “Best Mum Ever.” And honestly? It’s the best kind of medal I could wish for. I wore it proudly. A small step, perhaps, toward being more of my own cheerleader.
Last week, I shared a simple photo on Instagram Stories, a snapshot of my morning cuppa beside my laptop. The weekend before had been full of celebration: our eldest receiving his Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award in London, a moment of real pride. But Monday brought with it the invisible load of motherhood - laundry, work deadlines, emotional juggling and the weight of getting back to ‘normal’ again.
That humble photo resonated. I had messages and little bursts of encouragement that reminded me that these small moments matter too. It got me thinking: maybe I don’t need to wait for others to notice. Maybe, sometimes, I need to pause and recognise myself.
To stop shrinking my words, “Oh, it’s just a little thing I’m doing…”
To stop minimising my contributions, “It’s not much really…”
And instead, to offer what I do the same energy, respect, and quiet confidence I so freely give to others.
This little medal around my neck? It’s not just made of cardboard, sticky tape and green wool. It’s also a reminder to see the value in the everyday, to speak more kindly, not just to others, but to myself. And perhaps most of all, it’s a reminder that I am seen, appreciated, and deeply loved, even (and especially) on the days when I forget it myself.
So if no one’s handed you a medal lately, consider this your sign to make your own or let your morning cuppa and a deep breath be your trophy for today. You’re doing more than you think. Be your own cheerleader. Quietly, proudly, and without apology.
I’d love to know what your homemade medal would say right now?
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