WHEN YOU DON'T TAKE CREDIT for things you do right or well, it can cause a mild but debilitating form of depression. You might not mope around, but you won’t feel as enthusiastic toward life as you could.

When you don’t acknowledge yourself for what you’ve accomplished, you get the feeling that you haven’t really done anything, and since you know you spent the day doing stuff, your efforts seem pointless and futile.

The solution is to make it a practice to ask yourself this question: What can I take credit for? Think of anything in your life that you’re glad happened, and look to see how much of it you can take credit for. What part of it was because of what you did? Until you’re in the habit, force yourself to do this every day. Ask yourself that question several times a day, and try to start noticing this simple fact: Much of the good stuff that happens in your life is a result of your choices and your effort.

If you’re not already in the habit of doing this, here’s what will happen: Over time, your level of energy and feeling of power and effectiveness will experience a resurgence. Your estimation of your own self-worth will rise up to match your actual worth. You will become more enthusiastic toward life. You’ll have the feeling that you have been spinning your wheels for a long time and suddenly the wheels are gripping the solid ground firmly and you are moving.

Take credit where credit is due. It may be impolite to brag to other people, but it is sane and healthy to acknowledge your own accomplishments to yourself.