You’re doing a great job! (read this if you're feeling crappy)

​To the new parents who haven’t slept properly for weeks, are eating pizza every night, and are just trying to get through the day:
 
You’re doing a great job.

You’re bringing a tiny new person into the world, and that’s not easy. Survival is okay – in fact, it is to be celebrated! Take it one day at a time, and celebrate the mini-wins :)

...
 
To the person dealing with depression:
 
You’re doing a great job.
 
I know it’s not easy. I know even leaving the house sometimes is an achievement. So treat it as such. Take it one day at a time. You can do this. I know you can. Please be gentle on yourself.

...
 
To the person living away from friends and family:
 
You’re doing a great job.
 
It’s tough being away from support networks. So take a breath, and congratulate yourself for doing this. I know it’s hard… but you’ll be okay. You have people that love you, even if they’re not nearby. Tough situations make us stronger.
 
...

To the person setting up a business that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere:
 
You’re doing a great job.
 
It’s brave to start a new business. You’re doing something that most people are scared to do. So let it take time, and learn and make mistakes as you go. It’s all part of it. Keep at it, and who knows where you'll be this time next year? 
 
...

To the person going to a job they hate every day:
 
You’re doing a great job.
 
I’ve been there. It can be soul-destroying. But it won’t always be like this. Fill your time outside of work with things you love. You’re doing great, by surviving each day and earning money while you figure out your next step.
 
...

To the person navigating a new relationship:
 
You’re doing a great job.
 
Relationships aren’t easy! It won’t always be plain sailing… but that’s because you’re in a close relationship with someone you care about. You’re both learning, and testing, and growing – and the struggles can be just as important as the lovey-dovey times.
 
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To the single girl or guy in a world of couples:
 
You’re doing a great job.
 
It’s not easy being single - especially in a couple-orientated world! Just keep being true to yourself. This is a great time to do all the things you want to do. You’re going to be fine. I promise. You're learning how to survive on your own - which is an awesome skill to have. 
 
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To the person dealing with first criticism of their new project:
 
You’re doing a great job.
 
I feel you. It stings. But you’ll bounce back from this. It’s part of it. There will be people who love you, and people who don’t. And that’s totally okay. If it’s helpful feedback, take it. If not, put it down to differing opinions - and leave it at that!
 
...

To the person unsure if they’re on the right path:
 
You’re doing a great job.
 
By putting one foot in front of the other. By keeping going. Taking action is the only way you will get clarity. So keep going, and tweak when you need to. Everyone has doubts. If in doubt, take a small step. 

...

I know this doesn't cover all scenarios.

But I hope it makes you realize that you, too, are doing a great job. 

Whatever you're working on.

Whatever you're dealing with. 

You're doing great.

Don't believe me?

Think how much you've changed in the last year. 

Think how much you've grown over the past five years.

Keep going.

It will be worth it.

Sending you love, encouragement, and high-fives :)

Claire
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