A few professions, writers among them, use something called a curriculum vitae, or CV. It begins as a simple resume, but goes on to provide an in-depth survey of your entire career, including professional memberships, works in progress, selected publications, speaking engagements, etc. Mine runs to the low side of the recommended four to six pages.
For the first time in more than a year, I had occasion to update my CV, which I include on my web site. And I was surprised at the little lift it gave me. The new info was important, of course, but reviewing my past successes turned my day around.
It's easy to lump your life, your work, into a blur of the past, especially if pain or disability has changed what you do or how you do it. But life and career are made of little moments, with plenty of successes among them. While updating my CV, I had reason to review my triumphs once again. And it changed how I saw myself today. Hell, it actually made me see myself today.
Even if you don't have need for a resume or CV anymore, try creating a "life resume." Don't just think about your successes and abilities; write it all down. Organize it however you wish. Since you're not using it to get a job, add categories like "Close Friends," "Family Relationships," and such, and list successes: the kids you've raised or are raising, the last time you painted the house, or your 10-year marriage. Take stock of accomplishments that you've never seen as accomplishments.
If you like what you see, revisit your personal CV once in a while, to update it if necessary, but also to get a sense of the total human being you still are.
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