Why are you great?

[VanityDiesHard]

I just responded to the 'why are you awful' thread, and I thought I would start another one so that we can big ourselves up a little bit.

I'll start: I've been sober for five years. Hardest and most worthwhile thing I've ever done for myself. I still miss alcohol sometimes, but I never give in and I am grateful for it. No AA, either, I just got on with it (although no disrespect AT ALL for people who stay sober with AA or Smart Recovery or any other program. I just don't find that kind of thing helpful)

I'm an excellent cook and a steadily improving baker, and I am completely self taught. I have never had lessons or worked in a restaurant, but people tell me that my food is better than that of many restaurants, and I believe them.

I have a terrific sense of style. I have a good figure, which I work hard on, and so most clothes look good on me, and I use that to my full advantage.

I am very kind and compassionate. Sure, I judge people behind their backs, but I am one of the gentlest, kindest people you'll meet.

Your turn!

I did enjoy the "why are you awful" thread.... Was some what reassuring but this type of thread makes my heart soar.

You are all incredible ❤️

I am helpful, almost to a fault. But when I hear someone is in need my default reaction is to help. Have learnt boundaries though and am more selective where I put this energy.

I'm kind. I run a voluntary community project because I really care about the people I'm working with.

I'm also super creative when thinking of the little details and making things special for others.

I think I'm a good mum, who's done a lot of work on herself and my DD is showing the benefits of this. She makes me unbelievably proud.

I've not had the most positive parenting myself, hence doing the work. But I'm currently trying to change the narrative and make my story less about my past and more about me as a person.

I juggle doing a fab job of raising two cracking kids, with working hard to keep the pennies rolling in. I drop a ball sometimes but when I do a pick it up and get it back in the air in no time.

I'm a brilliant mum. My daughter comes before anyone and anything else.

I am great because I put everybody before me. No matter how I feel inside or what troubles I am going through, nobody outside my home would know. I put a fake smile on every day, I am polite, helpful and cheery and will go out my way to make someone's life easier but inside I am miserable. I have no relationship with my partner, he makes no effort to help around the home or spend time with our child. But I am great at putting on a brave face and appear to the world as a very happy person.

I have worked incredibly hard in therapy to sort out my OCD - I'll always be at risk from it, but getting it under control to a point where it would no longer classify as a disorder feels wonderful.
I am good at teaching and mentoring people, I am very encouraging but I also know how to challenge just the right amount, and I love to see that eureka moment in my students.
I can bring people comfort with my prayers, and make them think with my talks - I give more credit to God on that one, but it's still a lovely gift to have.
On that note, I'm a pretty good public speaker despite having some speech difficulties at times.
I've had some really difficult things happen to me, but I'm proud to say that I am kind and friendly and generally in a pretty good place in my life.