I just came out of what could possibly be the best week of my life. It was my 40th birthday on Tuesday and I spent the entire week (except Thursday, which was my son's birthday) teaching and sharing at live classes daily. It was an eye-opening experience for me and I'll tell you why.

You see, I had planned to release my new book on my birthday, that would have been the focus of the celebrations.

But as God would have it, or should I say due to some distractions (because hey, life happens), I couldn't meet the deadline. So I had to change tactics.

I also could not have the big birthday bash my husband was planning and all the things I wanted to do. I mean, our family members abroad had even bought flight tickets to attend this proposed bash of the year.

And then COVID-19 happened.

Oh well, as with everything else, we have had to restructure and re-align. And in planning, I came up with a way to celebrate myself all week long, by giving back. I lined up free classes to teach what I know. And in the giving, I received. Four people signed up for my Premium Writing course, and many more have bought my birthday book bundle. You can buy yours at only N2,500, click below:

Buy Bundle Here!

So back to the main gist. I noticed that because I celebrated myself so proudly, others were glad and eager to celebrate me too. I learnt that what my mother has always said is true - "People will call you whatever name you call yourself."

Even the bible says the power of life and death are in the tongue. So how did I get here? How did I start to speak so boldly about myself and my gifts? I'll teach you.

Today, do a small exercise,

1. List out all the good qualities you have, including all the skills you have ever been complimented on.
2. See how resourced and valuable you are? Now write a letter to yourself, praising yourself. (P.s. This will be hard. Most of us are very humble and have a false sense of modesty. Please scratch that and see yourself as you parent or spouse - any loved one- sees you.)
3. Read this over and over till you believe it. Read affirmations derived from this and build your self esteem.
4. Now launch out!

You will notice that your swag will be different. Know thyself is not a crime. Be humble, but please believe in yourself. Love yourself enough not to take rubbish from people. It's a new week and another opportunity to be the first day of the rest of your life. What will you do differently?

Remember, I am rooting for your success.

Till I come your way again, I remain,

Your favourite girl,

Brenda Unu.