What activities make you feel good about yourself

Like many, I often struggle to manage my mental health, self-esteem and negative thoughts towards myself. However, I do have a few activities that I enjoy that just help to reframe things and make me feel positive about myself.

What activities do you enjoy that have a positive effect on your outlook?

I just started exercise again after a 3 month break and it feels wonderful. I also picked up woodworking again after a similar break and have just completed making a new workbench. It’s not brilliant, but it’s mine and I’m proud of it.

Parents
  • It’s great that exercise makes you feel wonderful, it’s a natural dopamine booster.

    The activity that makes me feel most positive about myself is connecting with and helping other autistic people like on this forum. Also I love Aucademy and listening to autism podcasts. I also love chatting to my autistic friend, he has a really positive influence.

    Thanks for starting a great discussion.

Reply
  • It’s great that exercise makes you feel wonderful, it’s a natural dopamine booster.

    The activity that makes me feel most positive about myself is connecting with and helping other autistic people like on this forum. Also I love Aucademy and listening to autism podcasts. I also love chatting to my autistic friend, he has a really positive influence.

    Thanks for starting a great discussion.

Children
  • I agree with that. I find this forum such a safe place at the end of the day where I can just be myself and help and be helped 

  • I’ve always found it to be such a boost. Finding the motivation at times can be hard, but it’s really worth it when I do.

    Its nice to read of your interests in autism- the more knowledgeable and understanding voices the better in my opinion. I’m learning more each day. It’s nice for you to have such a positive influence in your life too I’m sure.

    Thanks for starting a great discussion

    I appreciate this too- I find that I can often focus on the things I’m finding tricky and tend to write about that stuff on here. I always receive a supportive set of replies, which is always appreciated. I’m trying to learn of the positives of my autism too though, so thought I’d give something like this a go. A step forwards in that direction so to speak.