Note: I wrote this post for WeAretheRealDeal today, but I love the concept so much I’m bringing it to my blog, too! Judy Garland once said: “Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else.”

I love that quote, and think it’s one of those mantras we could all benefit from repeating.

And so, channeling the cheerleader of my youth, I thought we’d try something different here at WeAretheRealDeal this week.

Inspired by Garland’s words, I”m calling it “Megaphone Monday.”

All too often here we’re discussing the pros and cons of comparing ourselves to others.

We’re spending energy (and I choose the word “spend” deliberately), talking about our bodies, our body image, our sense of self as defined by our physical selves … and often there’s a comparing factor.

We’re debating the ups and downs of things like weight loss, weight gain, self-acceptance.

But what if we had a place where we had free reign to toot our own horn, about stuff that has nothing to do with our appearance or how we perceive ourselves ?

Take your appearance out of the equation entirely and look at yourself through the lens of someone else, a spouse, a loved one, a friend.

OK, now ponder these questions. What are YOU awesome at? What do YOU know how to do so well that others ask your help? How are you a first-rate version of yourself?

I want you to shout it out from the mountaintops!!

It might not be easy to answer; you might feel selfish or self-indulgent being honest about what you feel you’re good at.

But there’s a difference between confidence and cockiness, and recognizing some of your positive traits/personality strengths can help increase your self-esteem.

I think sometimes we need to shift the focus — move the goal-posts, if you will — to truly find true self-acceptance. And if that means looking at yourself through another lens … so be it.

I’ll raise my hand and start. I have been told I’m compassionate, a people-person, and a good writer. And I try to live those attributes every day.

So … will you join me on this Megaphone Monday? Tell us something awesome about yourself in the comments, and don’t hold back!