“SUCK IT UP BUTTERCUP”

This phrase is like fingernails on a chalkboard to my spine.  Nothing in this phrase resonates compassion, understanding, inspiration or forgiveness.  I know I have never been motivated by someone telling me to “Suck it Up,”  “Suck it In” or “Get Over It.”  Such unloving and unkind words we say to ourselves and others.

As a personal trainer and group instructor, I have never uttered these words as they don’t resonate for me.  When I hear Coaches of Sports Teams say things like “Ok, Ladies, let’s get your tampons out.” (Used as “inspiration” and “motivation” to Men’s/Boy’s teams, I cringe as a woman and an empathy.  Lovely phrase isn’t it?  Has anyone really performed better using the negative?  Possibly temporarily but is it long term sustaining? 

As I transition from some of my current work related activities to another, I am still “doing” certain activities that I am no longer passionate about.  It takes physical and mental fortitude to keep doing it, the reasons why aren’t relevant to write but my internal dialogue isn’t “SUCK IT UP BUTTERCUP.”  It’s “DO YOUR VERY BEST.”  “YOU GOT THIS”  “PERFORM TO YOUR HIGHEST ABILITY BOTH FOR YOU AND YOUR CLIENT/CLASS”  It doesn’t feel easy but noticing the vibration of “SUCK IT UP BUTTERCUP” or “DO YOUR VERY BEST, YOU GOT THIS.” Which feels better in your Spirit?