Before I began to write this post, I googled self love out of curiosity and the first thing that came up talked about things like, excessive pride, vanity, conceit, narcissism. Holy cow! That’s pretty harsh. I remember growing up and being told not to be conceited or vain, maybe that’s why I still struggle with this. Obviously, that definition got trashed and I came up with this: appreciation of your worth and gifts, understanding the importance of your own happiness and well being, filling your own cup and knowing that by doing so, you are better able to help to fill the cups of others.
Why do so many struggle with this? Perhaps, you live what you know, what you have always known. It is so easy to embody the negative, especially if that is all you have heard for years. Your too tall, too short, too heavy, too thin. Years of teasing about weight lead me right into the throws of an eating disorder when I was a teenager. I struggle with this still today, it never really goes away, I am just able to put things into perspective better now (most of the time, anyway). My point `is, if all you hear is negative or critical, that ‘s what you come to believe.
How can we work to love ourselves more? Here are some thoughts:
- Accept your flaws. Own them! They are what make you you. They are part of your beautiful uniqueness. Accept these part of yourself and you will be amazed at the sense of peace and well being it can bring.
- Take responsibility for your decisions. Before making a decision ask yourself, is this in my best interest, do I have the time for this, in the long run can this end up hurting me in any way? If the answer is yes, then the answer is no. Don’t let others guilt you into doing something that does not serve you. Remember, you come first.
- Avoid toxic people and situations. Stay away from people and situations that drag you down. Evolve above them, do not let them have power over you. Surround yourself with those that lift you up, that see the best in you, who love you for who you are.
- Give yourself forgiveness for past decisions and then let that stuff go!! Close your eyes, take a deep breath in and gather all that stuff and give yourself the gift of forgiveness, as you exhale, release it all and watch it float away like clouds moving in the sky. You will feel so much lighter and at peace with yourself.
- Work on loving yourself. Celebrate the small victories as well as your strength and power.
Reading back, this seems like a lot. Take baby steps, work on one thing at a time and let yourself grow little by little. You will feel your heart begin to shine and your confidence grow! Remember, you are one gorgeous, bad-ass goddess!! Own it! Own every single part of it!! You totally deserve the peace and happiness it will bring!
Until next time, wishing you love and bright blessings,
Kerrie