Today’s topic is esteem. When I think about esteem, I think of the two types: self-esteem and external esteem. Self-esteem is the internal aspect of esteem, where you value yourself, recognize your worth, and have confidence in your abilities. High self-esteem involves:

• Feeling good about who you are.
• Believing in your capabilities.
• Maintaining a positive self-image.

Self-esteem is a powerful force that shapes your outlook on life. It’s not just about feeling good about yourself or believing in your capabilities; it’s about how these feelings influence your resilience, motivation, and perspective on the world.

External esteem, on the other hand, involves the respect, recognition, and appreciation you receive from others. It’s about acknowledging your achievements, validating your efforts, and earning the respect of your team, family, and community. This external esteem helps you feel valued and appreciated, fostering a sense of belonging. Every day is an opportunity to start new. No matter where you find yourself, you can choose to change the trajectory of your situation. You may not be where you want to be, but this moment does not define you. Choose today to push the needle 1%. You are only stuck if you stop. Remember, your happiness is your responsibility.

Love is our next focus. I can not express enough the importance of self-love and choosing love over hate. It’s a powerful choice that empowers us and puts us in control of our emotions. Love is one of my favorite topics. To love and have the privilege of being loved is the greatest joy on earth. I know you often hear me say, “Go love on someone today.” It’s so true. Love changes everything. Cherish your relationships, reach out to loved ones, and be open to forming new bonds. We all need to feel accepted and valued by others. You can change your day by simply showing love to another person. Sometimes, the best way to put a smile on your face is to do random acts of kindness purposefully. Pick up the phone and call someone you last talked to a year ago. Send a text to someone you have been waiting to hear from for six months. You have so much to offer to others. You are precious, treasured, respected, and adored. I am so thankful you share your time and talents with the team, community, and our family each day. Remember, you can choose to love others by volunteering outside the restaurant. If you need to brainstorm ideas for our community’s needs, I am ready and available to help you. Remember, your happiness is your responsibility.

Greetings, team! I encourage you to keep writing your own story. Approach each situation, day, or struggle with compassion. You have been dedicated to your growth journey this month and are now seeing the results of a renewed mindset. You continue to shape a new outlook while breaking down barriers that once held you back. As you continue writing your story, I urge you to find ways to bring joy into your day. It’s all around you, and the entire team is here to support you. When things get tough, and some days they will, and your joy meter is running low, choose to spread joy to someone else. Acts of kindness can make a huge difference in someone’s day, and there are always opportunities around you to share love. Keep up the great work. Your achievements are not small; they are significant and worth celebrating. Remember, your happiness is your responsibility.

Hello team! Today is a great day to set your goals for the week. Each day is a new opportunity for a growth mindset, regardless of what is happening around you. Growing daily, even in an emotionally dry place, takes courage. Life can and will stop you in your tracks with no warning. That is why it is essential to build up your emotional toolbox so you can be ready to use the tools when going through the dry seasons of your life. But remember, you are not alone in this journey. Your community is here for you, especially during the dry season. I want to focus on internal anxiety today. Internal anxiety is a thief, and it will cause you to disconnect, disengage, and steal your joy. Anxiety can make your very bones feel dry. It can make you feel as if you are suffocating. I am a woman of faith, and at these times, I lean on scripture and prayer to help me through these seasons. I respect and understand that each of you has your own belief system, and regardless of where you are in it, you are not alone. You have community and have been working daily on your mind, body, and spirit. You don’t need to choose to let your right now dictate your outcome. Remember, your happiness is your responsibility.

Hello Team! Today, I want to talk about the power each of you holds to shape your own happiness. I encourage you to imagine the person you want to be each day you wake up. As we continue through our month of growth and renewal, I want you to get creative about how you will meet your goals.   Each morning is a fresh opportunity to start anew. Remember, regardless of where you are, you can choose your attitude and response. Envision the person you want to be and map out a plan to achieve that goal. Consider the emotional, physical, and mental aspects when constructing a plan to propel you to the next level. You are a unique and wonderful individual. Your past does not dictate your present and certainly does not have to shape your future. You are only stuck if you choose to be.   I see each of you growing and handling obstacles with finesse. Keep up the excellent work, and thank you for choosing our team to share your time and talents. Remember, your happiness is your responsibility.