Life in a foreign country can be exciting, yet at times, it challenges your sense of identity, self-worth, and direction. As you navigate cultural differences, pursue dreams, and build a life away from home, one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself is self-love, confidence, and an unshakable belief in your worth.
In Treasure Yourself, Miranda Kerr shares invaluable lessons on embracing who you are, radiating positivity, and stepping into your highest potential. These lessons are especially powerful for foreigners, expats, and dreamers, reminding us that no matter where we are, we carry the power to create a life filled with purpose, joy, and success.
Let’s dive into these transformational lessons and explore how they can elevate your mindset, enrich your experience in Japan or anywhere you re in the world, and help you step into the best version of yourself.
1. Step Out with Confidence: Own Who You Are
One of the biggest challenges of living abroad is dealing with self-doubt and uncertainty. When you’re surrounded by a culture different from your own, it’s easy to feel like an outsider. You might question whether you belong, whether you’re good enough, or whether you’ll ever fully adapt.
But here’s the truth: Confidence isn’t about fitting in—it’s about owning who you are, wherever you are.
Wisdom from the book:
• Confidence is not about being perfect. It’s about embracing your strengths and stepping forward, even when you feel uncertain.
• True self-assurance comes from within—it’s about how you see yourself, not how others see you.
• When you radiate confidence, people will naturally respect and admire you.
How to apply this as a foreigner:
• Instead of worrying about how different you are, celebrate it. Your uniqueness is your strength.
• Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone—whether it’s speaking in Japanese, making new friends, or taking on new opportunities.
• Practice Power Thoughts daily.
“I am capable, strong, and worthy.”
“I belong wherever I choose to be.”
“I confidently embrace life’s challenges.”
Confidence is a muscle—the more you use it, the stronger it gets.
There are days when I catch myself trying to blend in, to fit the mold of what’s expected, to align with the unspoken rules of the society I now call home. I follow their customs, respect their traditions, and do my best to conform—but deep inside, there’s a voice whispering, “What about me?”
It’s a quiet battle between belonging and authenticity—a struggle many foreigners face. The desire to be accepted sometimes overshadows the need to embrace our true selves, making us feel as if we must hide parts of who we are just to be seen as “one of them.”
But here’s the truth: You don’t have to lose yourself to be respected. You can follow the rules, adapt to a new culture, and still honor the person you’ve always been. Confidence isn’t about choosing between two identities—it’s about integrating them, standing tall, and saying, “This is me, and I belong.”
When you step out with confidence—fully embracing who you are while respecting where you are—something shifts. People sense your strength. They admire your uniqueness. And most importantly, you start living freely, unapologetically, and boldly in your own skin.
So today, instead of silencing that inner voice, let it roar. You don’t have to shrink yourself to fit in—you were meant to stand out, shine, and own your place in this world.
2. Mirror, Mirror on the Wall: Change the Way You See Yourself
Many people look in the mirror and see flaws, but what if you could look in the mirror and see strength, beauty, and possibility?
Kerr teaches us that the way we perceive ourselves shapes the way we experience life. If we constantly criticize ourselves, we limit our own potential. But if we speak kindly to ourselves, we open the door to self-acceptance and personal growth.
Wisdom from the book:
• Your inner dialogue matters—make it loving, not critical.
• Every morning, look in the mirror and say something positive about yourself.
• Your thoughts shape your energy—focus on what you love about yourself, and you will radiate confidence.
How to apply this as a foreigner:
• When you feel out of place, remind yourself: I am valuable, I am enough, and I bring something special to this world.
• Don’t compare yourself to others—whether it’s in appearance, language skills, or cultural adaptability. You are on your own journey.
• Treat yourself with kindness, the way you would treat a dear friend.
The moment you change the way you see yourself, the world will reflect that back to you.
Living as a gaijin can sometimes feel like being a small boat in a vast ocean—adrift, unfamiliar with the tides, and unsure of where you truly belong. The language, the culture, the unspoken social expectations—everything feels foreign and at times, isolating. I found myself thinking, Maybe I should just accept what’s in front of me and live within the limits of what this place allows for me.
But deep inside, there was a voice—a relentless, burning whisper—telling me, You are made for more. I wasn’t placed in this world just to exist. I was meant to create, to share, and make an impact.
That’s when everything began to shift. Instead of looking at myself as an outsider, I started looking within. I picked up a pen and began journaling my thoughts, untangling the emotions that had been buried under self-doubt. I listened to the cry of my soul, the part of me that longed for growth, for purpose, for something beyond mere survival.
I turned to books, videos, and lessons on personal development—anything that could help me reshape the way I saw myself. And the more I learned, the more I realized that the only real limitations were the ones I placed on myself.
I am not just a foreigner. I am a creator, a dreamer, a person with gifts that the world needs. And so are you. The moment you stop seeing yourself as small and start embracing the immense power within you, your whole world transforms.
You are not here by accident. Your talents, your voice, your presence—they all have meaning. Start seeing yourself as someone who belongs, someone who has something valuable to offer. Because the truth is, you do.
3. It’s All About You: Prioritizing Self-Care and Well-Being
In a fast-paced world, it’s easy to put everyone else first—your job, your family, your responsibilities. But the truth is, you cannot pour from an empty cup.
Taking care of yourself—your mind, body, and spirit—isn’t selfish; it’s necessary.
Wisdom from the book:
• Self-care isn’t about indulgence; it’s about replenishing your energy so you can give more to the world.
• Your body and mind are sacred—nourish them with healthy food, movement, and rest.
• Protect your energy—set boundaries with people and situations that drain you.
How to apply this as a foreigner:
• Find moments of peace in your day—whether it’s a quiet walk, meditation, or journaling.
• Prioritize healthy eating and movement—your body is your home, no matter where you live.
• Say no to things that exhaust you. Your time and energy are precious—use them wisely.
Japan is known for its demanding, workaholic culture, and as a foreigner, you’re expected to keep up with the pace. Most foreigners here juggle full-time jobs, take care of children, manage household chores, and some even take on part-time work just to make ends meet. With skyrocketing living costs and daily responsibilities piling up, thinking about personal well-being often feels like a luxury—one that many feel they simply can’t afford.
I was no exception. I once believed that working harder was the only way to secure a good life in Japan. I pushed myself beyond exhaustion, convincing myself that sacrificing my own needs was necessary for my family’s future. But despite all my efforts, I wasn’t living the life I had always dreamed of.
Then, in one quiet moment of deep solitude, a question echoed in my mind:
“How can I give more to my children and to the people around me if I am running on empty?”
“How can I have the courage to pursue my dreams if I’ve burned out all the fire within me?”
That’s when I realized that taking care of myself isn’t selfish. It’s essential.
If we keep giving without replenishing, we don’t just exhaust ourselves—we lose the very spark that makes us capable of creating the life we truly desire. Our dreams, our passions, our ability to love and nurture—they all stem from the energy we cultivate within.
So, I started making changes. I gave myself permission to rest without guilt, to pursue my passions, and to prioritize my well-being without feeling like I was taking something away from my family. And the most beautiful thing happened—I had more to give. More love, more patience, more inspiration, more strength.
Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup. Your dreams, your happiness, your well-being—they matter. And when you start taking care of yourself, you don’t just improve your own life, you elevate the lives of everyone around you.
So, take a deep breath and remind yourself: You deserve to live, not just survive.
4. Don’t Forget to Say ‘Thank You’: The Power of Gratitude
Life has a way of testing us. It throws challenges that shake us to the core, moments that make us question our strength, our worth, and even our faith. But gratitude is the key that unlocks resilience—it shifts our perspective, helping us find hope where there once was despair.
Wisdom from the book:
Miranda Kerr shares a profound truth: Gratitude has the power to transform even the darkest moments of our lives. It is not just about saying thank you when things go well—it is about finding light even in the depths of struggle.
Miranda teaches that gratitude is not about ignoring pain or pretending hardships don’t exist. Instead, it’s about recognizing that even in the midst of difficulty, there is still something to hold onto. The love of a child. The kindness of a stranger. The simple gift of another day. When we shift our focus from what is missing to what remains, we begin to see life through a different lens—one filled with hope, strength, and endless possibility.
My journey as a foreigner has never been easy. I have endured challenges that felt impossible, burdens so heavy that they nearly crushed me. There were days I felt alone, moments I believed I was drowning in struggles that no one could see. I gave my all, trusted, and hoped—only to find myself standing in the wreckage of broken expectations.
There were nights I cried out, questioning God:
“Why must I bear this weight? Why does life seem so unfair?”
That still, small voice whispered with unwavering certainty, “You are exactly where you need to be; you are stronger than you think.” My mind wrestled with doubt, searching for answers, questioning the weight of my struggles. But deep within, beneath the noise of fear and uncertainty, there was peace—a quiet, unshakable knowing that every challenge, every heartbreak, and every unanswered question was shaping me into something greater.
I didn’t have all the answers, but I had faith. And in that faith, I found the courage to surrender—not in defeat, but in trust. Assurance and gratitude filled my spirit, not because the road ahead would be easy but because I believed in the purpose behind every step. I chose to see my hardships not as barriers but as lessons. Every setback was forging resilience within me. Every tear was watering the seeds of something greater. And in that surrender, I realized—I wasn’t just enduring. I was becoming.
When I started shifting my perspective, something incredible happened. The burdens felt lighter. The road ahead, though still uncertain, no longer seemed impossible. I stopped focusing on what I had lost and started appreciating all that I had. I have two beautiful children who love me unconditionally, who remind me that I am their safe place, their guiding light.
I have a home—a space of my own where I can rebuild, heal, and grow.
I have a purpose—to share my journey, to inspire, to uplift others who may be walking a similar path.
The Life-Changing Power of Gratitude
Gratitude is not just a feeling—it is a superpower that transforms the way we experience life.
• When we choose to see the blessings instead of the burdens, we unlock resilience.
• When we find gratitude even in pain, we shift from suffering to strength.
• When we trust that our struggles are part of a greater plan, we turn hardship into purpose.
So, today, pause. Breathe. Look around.
You have survived moments you once thought would break you. You have overcome battles you never imagined facing. And here you are—still standing, still breathing, still moving forward.
There is beauty in your resilience. There is power in your story. And there is always something to be grateful for.
Because when you choose gratitude, you don’t just change your mindset—you change your entire life.
5. Dream Your Way to Success: Unlocking the Power of Your Mind
Before you sleep, your mind is in its most receptive state. This is the perfect time to plant Power Thoughts that shape your future.
Miranda shares a profound truth: Our dreams hold the answers we seek. Whether we’re awake and envisioning our future or asleep and receiving insights from our subconscious, our minds are constantly working to shape our reality.
She explains that before and after sleep, our minds are in their most receptive state. This is when our subconscious is highly impressionable, making it the perfect time to reprogram limiting beliefs and set the foundation for success. By intentionally choosing our thoughts, we can transform our mindset, attract new opportunities, and align ourselves with the life we desire.
Wisdom from the book:
• Your subconscious mind is powerful – The thoughts you feed your mind before you sleep shape your emotions, decisions, and even the opportunities that come your way.
• Dreams provide answers – When we sleep, our subconscious processes emotions, ideas, and hidden truths. If we set intentions before bed, we can wake up with clarity and insight.
• Reprogram your mind through reading and writing – Reading uplifting books and writing positive affirmations (Power Thoughts) before bed and upon waking helps replace self-doubt with confidence and purpose.
• What you believe, you attract – If you focus on negativity and limitations, your life reflects that. But when you shift your focus to success, abundance, and possibility, life starts to align with your vision.
As a foreigner, there were nights I lay awake questioning my path. The struggles, the loneliness, the feeling that my dreams were too big for my reality—it all felt overwhelming.
But something changed when I started being intentional with my thoughts before bed. Instead of replaying my worries, I:
• Wrote down Power Thoughts to remind myself of my strength and potential.
• Read inspiring books that filled my mind with wisdom and encouragement.
• Set an intention before sleeping, asking for clarity and guidance in my dreams.
And slowly, I began waking up with a renewed sense of purpose. Ideas flowed more freely. My mindset shifted from doubt to determination. I realized that my dreams weren’t impossible—they were waiting for me to believe in them.
How to Create Your Own Power Thoughts (Inspired by Miranda Kerr)
Miranda emphasizes that Power Thoughts are more than just words—they are affirmations that rewire our subconscious and influence our reality. Here’s how you can create and use them effectively:
• Identify the beliefs holding you back. What negative thoughts do you often tell yourself? Write them down so you can consciously replace them.
• Transform them into powerful, positive statements. Instead of saying, “I’ll never be successful,” say, “I am capable, worthy, and on the path to success.” Instead of “I’m stuck,” say, “I am constantly evolving, and new opportunities are flowing to me.”
• Write them down before bed and after waking up – Keep a journal beside your bed and make it a habit to write your Power Thoughts at night and in the morning.
• Feel the emotions behind them. Don’t just write the words—truly believe in them. Feel the excitement, confidence, and joy as if they were already true.
• Repeat them daily – The more you reinforce these thoughts, the deeper they sink into your subconscious, reshaping the way you see yourself and your future.
• Align your actions with your new beliefs – Your thoughts create the foundation, but action brings them to life. Step forward with confidence, knowing that you are becoming exactly who you were meant to be.
Your dreams—both the ones you imagine and the ones that come to you in sleep—are not meaningless. They hold messages, insights, and reminders of your limitless potential.
• Feed your mind with empowering thoughts before bed.
• Wake up each day with intention and purpose.
•Let your dreams guide you, not limit you.
• Trust that the answers you seek are already within you.
Your life is a reflection of the thoughts you nurture. Dream boldly, believe fiercely, and take inspired action. Your success story is already unfolding—it’s time to step into it.
This is my power thought. I remind myself every day of who I am and that I am guided and directed to the life I’m destined to have.
Treasure Yourself, Transform Your Life
Throughout this journey, we have explored the power of self-love, confidence, gratitude, and the limitless potential within you. But the most important truth I want you to take away is this: You are the greatest treasure of your own life.
Everything you need—strength, wisdom, love, purpose—already exists within you. You do not need to become someone else or fit into anyone’s mold to be worthy. You were born enough, and you are still enough, exactly as you are.
But life has a way of making us forget. The noise of expectations, the weight of responsibilities, the pressure to conform—it all makes us question our own worth. Yet, deep within, your soul knows the truth. You are meant to thrive, to shine, to love deeply, and to live fully.
The Power to Transform Your Life Is in Your Hands
• Your thoughts shape your reality. The way you see yourself and the world determines the life you create. Choose empowering thoughts, and you will create an extraordinary life.
•Gratitude is the key to abundance. Even in the hardest times, when you choose to be grateful, you open your heart to receive more. Life responds to those who appreciate it.
• Dreaming is not just wishful thinking—it is a blueprint for your future. Your dreams hold the answers, the guidance, and the inspiration you need to step into the life you desire. Trust them. Pursue them.
• You are not here to live in fear. You are here to love, to grow, and to experience life with an open heart. Stop holding back. Step forward with courage.
• Your journey is uniquely yours. Do not compare your path to others. You are meant to create a life that feels true to YOU. Embrace it, cherish it, and own it.
Your Life is Waiting—Step Into It Fully
As you move forward, remind yourself of this: You are powerful beyond measure. No matter where you are, no matter what challenges you face, you have the strength, wisdom, and resilience to rise.
You are not defined by your past, by your circumstances, or by the doubts in your mind. You are defined by the love you give, the courage you show, and the dreams you refuse to give up on.
So treasure yourself. Honor your worth. Live boldly. Love fiercely. And never, ever stop believing in the magic of your own potential.
The world is waiting for you to step fully into your light. Go and embrace the life you were meant to live.
