The ‘Just’ Menace: Putting the Brakes on Our Biggest Underminer

There's a tiny word that sneaks into our daily language, seemingly harmless but secretly powerful enough to downplay our victories and efforts: “JUST”. This word might look innocent yet it holds a significant weight in how we perceive our own achievements and self-worth. It's worth taking a moment to really think about how often "just" pops up in our conversations and the subtle ways it might be shaping our views on wellness and personal progress.

The tendency to diminish our victories with "just" isn't just a matter of speech—it's rooted in a psychological pattern known as minimization. This behavior can arise from various sources: perhaps an attempt to adhere to social norms that hold modesty in high regard, a fear of appearing boastful, or underlying feelings of low self-esteem. Moreover, imposter syndrome, a condition where individuals doubt their accomplishments and harbor a fear of being exposed as frauds, often compels us to use "just" as a tool to downplay the significance of our successes. This defense mechanism, while aimed at protecting us, actually prevents us from fully recognizing and owning our achievements.

When we tell ourselves we "just went for a short walk" or "just finished a small project," we're not giving ourselves enough credit. Every step forward, no matter how small, is a part of our journey towards better health and personal growth. The thing is, when "just" makes an appearance, it's like we're apologizing for not doing more, even when we're doing our best. It's high time we recognized the power of our actions, without the shadow of diminishment it brings.

Imagine the shift in perspective if we consciously removed "just" from our narrative. Instead of minimizing our actions, we could affirm them with confidence.  Instead of saying "I just managed to meditate for five minutes," we could say "I took five whole minutes today to meditate and center myself." It's the same action, but without "just," it suddenly feels like an achievement worth celebrating. This small change in language can make a big difference in how we feel about our accomplishments and can even boost our motivation to keep pushing forward.

But it's not just about boosting our own spirits. The way we talk about our achievements can influence how others see their own efforts, too. By ditching "just" from our vocabulary, we're not only uplifting ourselves but also encouraging those around us to celebrate their victories, no matter the size. It's about creating a culture of positivity and recognition, where every effort towards wellness and self-improvement is acknowledged and applauded.

Let's challenge ourselves to be mindful of when and how we use "just."  It may take practice to break this habit - the aim is to fully appreciate the value of our efforts. Celebrating every step on our wellness journey not only reinforces our commitment to self-care but also builds a stronger, more supportive community. Together, without the weight of "just," we can fully embrace and celebrate our progress, inspiring and motivating one another along the way.

As we continue on our wellness journey, let’s turn a keen eye to those tiny but harmful words that might be hiding in plain sight. It's high time we give them the boot and make room for more celebration in our lives. Remember, every victory, no matter how small, deserves celebration.  So, let’s ditch the "just," embrace every achievement, and celebrate the whole you. Here's to shouting from the rooftops about every step we take, no minimizers allowed. After all, in the grand adventure of wellness and self-discovery, you're not just anything—you're everything!