Learning by Not Doing

I ran into this:

http://www.marcandangel.com/2011/12/11/30-things-to-stop-doing-to-yourself/

I was so affected by the link that I thought I'd make a few lists based on it. You should too! It makes a good self-assessment tool.

Warning, this post is going to be a long one. Please, bear with me. This will contain lists with just a series of numbers, so please take the time to open up the link so you can play along.

Oh, one more thing. The list is about 30 things to stop doing to yourself, but for the purposes of this list, just pretend that you removed the word "stop" from every activity. Bah, why did I even bother to explain this? You're all really smart people.

Things That I Still Do (according to the list):
1, 7, 11, 12, 19, and 23

Things That I Am Actively Working On:
2, 5, 8, 10, 13, 17, 20, 21, 22, 25, 28, 29, and 30

Things That I Used to Do:
3, 4, 6, 9, 15, 18, 26, and 27

Things That I Never Did (to my knowledge):
14, 16, and 24

So there's the list, but what does this all mean for me (and for you, should you participate)?

While all of the lists show a sense of self-awareness, the first list is an acknowledgement that I do have flaws. And [ac]knowledge[ment] is half the battle! You'd be surprised how difficult it is for some people to admit their flaws.

The last list is similar to the first, in that it takes some effort to be truthful about your strengths. It's also a good reminder that I wasn't born a completely broken mess.

Where the first list is simple recognition of my flaws, the second list involves active participation. Seeing this list is both intimidating and a relief. This list is HUGE, and I have to admit that I'm really just fumbling in the dark when it comes to fixing most of those issues. At the same time, it shows that I still have an interest in my life and that I'm willing to push on. It's important to remember that I haven't given up.

The third list shows my accomplishments. Where the second lists shows that I'm trying to live, this list shows that I am quite capable of doing it. It may seem funny to some people that I need to say that I'm capable of living, but it's a necessity for a depressive like me.

Still there? Glad you can make it to the end of my blog post (that was originally a Facebook status)! If you really pored through this thing, then you've just learned a little more about me, didn't ya?

Even if you didn't want to know me, that's fine. What's more important is to see how this link would help you. Make your own lists and post them in the comments!