Listen: you're amazing, and it's time for a pep talk. This week, we're challenging you to change the way you think and talk about yourself. Are you in for a week filled with positive self-talk?

Why are we so hard on ourselves? Some of the things we say about our appearance or our worth as a mom/partner/friend are downright mean. We'd never talk to our daughters this way, so why do we use words like weak, fat, ugly, or failure to describe ourselves? None of it is true!

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To end Focus on Relationships month with a bang, we're kicking off our “Man in the Mirror” week. We have focused on building relationships with our spouses, our kids, with our friends, and now it's time to focus on the relationship we have with OURSELVES. We can often be our worst critics, but today it all ends with the Nothing Negative Challenge. Let's do this!

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POSITIVE SELF TALK RULE #1: NOTHING NEGATIVE

Okay, if you're going all-in on our Man in the Mirror challenge, you need to know the rules. This first one is important. For the next seven days, you're not allowed to say anything negative about yourself. AT ALL. Seriously.

Draw a big X on your hand, write this rule on your mirror, put sticky notes in your car. Do whatever it takes to remind yourself.

You might be surprised how often you say negative things about yourself. It's something we need to work on, for sure. We all know we have strengths, but isn't it easier to focus on the weaknesses? Rather than focus on what we're GOOD at, we often throw a pity party about what we're not so good at. The truth? Focusing on flaws is just wasted energy. Instead, use that time and energy to focus on making your strengths even stronger. You'll be ready to conquer the world in no time!

You've got this! Remember: no negative talk. Ready for the next rule?

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RULE #2: ACCEPT ALL COMPLIMENTS

Rule number two is simple: if someone compliments you, you must accept the compliment. Easy enough, right? Well, not so fast!

Accepting the compliment means you can't add any “but” statements. No denying the compliment, no self-depreciation, no feeling embarrassed by it. Accept it, say “thank you,” be gracious, take it to heart and feel proud of yourself!

You should feel proud because you're awesome! And you know what else is awesome? Helping other people feel more confident. That brings us to the next rule of this challenge!

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POSITIVE SELF TALK RULE #3: RETURN THE FAVOR

Obviously, this challenge‘s main goal is to focus on thinking of yourself in a more positive light. But you need to return the favor, too! So, rule number three is to only say positive things about others this week.

Don't worry; that one's hard for us, too, but we're in this together! No gossip or rumors this week. Even if it's true, if it's not kind, then it doesn't need to be said.

Focus, instead, on pointing out the positive things you notice about those around you. Compliment them. Give someone a reason to smile. Being positive, in general, will help you start to feel more positive about yourself.

And on that note, let's put this in practice with the next rule of this challenge!

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POSITIVE SELF TALK RULE #4: SHARE WORDS OF AFFIRMATION

If you're not normally comfortable expressing yourself through words, we get it! Words of affirmation is NOT a love language that comes easily to most people. And that's okay.

But just for this week, let's focus on giving positive reinforcements to those around us. Even if it feels awkward, push yourself out of your comfort zone and watch what happens. Commit to giving genuine compliments to your kids, spouse/partner, friends, and coworkers.

And that's it. Those are the only rules! It's really all about kindness, you guys. Being kind to others AND ourselves. Are you ready to do this? In case you need a little inspiration to get motivated, we've compiled a few of our favorite quotes to share!

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INSPIRATIONAL QUOTES WE LOVE

Even the most positive people need a boost sometimes! These are just a few of our favorite inspirational quotes. Pick your favorite and write it on your bathroom mirror or put it on your desk!

• “If you can't be kind, be quiet.” -Unknown
• “There is no passion to be found in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.” -Nelson Mandela
• “Tell yourself: Everything will work out. Things will get better. You are important and worthy. You are loveable. We believe the things we tell ourselves.” -Doe Zantamata
• “Train your mind to see the good in everything.” -Unknown
• “Accept yourself, love yourself, and keep moving forward. If you want to fly, you have to give up what weighs you down.” – Roy R. Bennett

Pro Tip: If quotes are your jam, you'll definitely want to read our daily affirmations post! We've rounded up more than 70 affirmations that will rock your world.

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So, what do you say…are you with us this week??? Let's keep each other accountable.

If you're in, comment below and share your favorite quote or some words of motivation! We're cheering for you.

Looking for an extra dose of positivity?

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Stay positive! You've got this!