Remember when you were a kid and had a meltdown because you couldn’t wear your favorite rocketship underpants to school? (Calvin and Hobbes reference ✅) Ok, maybe not. But the rest of us weren’t as mature and we definitely do.
Even as a kid, we recognized that weird, little things can boost our self-esteem and even performance in an area. We haven’t outgrown it. But we have tried to ignore it as childish. I wouldn’t do that if I were you. Here’s why.
You act differently when you perceive yourself differently.
And vice versa.
This first hit me when I was trying on an outfit for my friend’s upcoming wedding 🎉
It fit well. I liked how I looked. Then I thought; “I should play piano.” I sat down at my out-of-tune beaten-up piano and began to play. All of a sudden, I was overcome with the performance, caught up in a swirl of emotion and excitement. I didn’t just play a song, I felt the song, it came from my being and flowed through my fingers.
“That’s weird” I thought as I finished up and put my music away. “I should dress up more often when I play piano” I laughed.
Yes. You should. Because when you perceive yourself differently you act differently. And when you act differently you perceive yourself differently. It’s a lovely cycle.
You may not love admitting it but there are all kinds of little things that, when you do them, they actually change how you feel. After my piano enlightenment, I started taking note of the little changes that made me stand straighter or unlocked a secret compartment of behavior that I loved.
It’s worth finding these little things. Because once you find them you can strategically lean into them. It’s amazing how something so small can change how you feel about yourself. Some will be universal, some will be totally unique to you.
Here are a few for me.
When I ride my motorcycle I become an endless ball of enthusiasm and happiness. It can be dumping rain and I’ll be having the time of my life.
When I dress well I feel confident, stately, and calculated. (partly why me and a group of friends dressed to the nines and ate at McDonalds. Worth it)
Cooking with friends. Yes, I’ve almost burnt my house down in the process. But during that process, I become an outgoing, energetic flurry of joy.
Also, fluffy carpet makes me happy.
And a good pen. That makes me happy too.
Don’t underestimate the power of little things in your life. Sometimes it’s all you need to ask that person out, write that wrong, or buy an adult size onzie and play volleyabll in it (yeah I did that too). These things can transform you into a totally different person. Build these rituals into your day, your work, and your family. If you need inspiration, read any of Bob Goff’s books. What a legend.
Now, put on your rocketship underpants and play piano. It’s a lethal combination.