In a world that continually points out our “flaws” or “inadequacies,” let us be a voice of reason by saying once and for all, “I love my damn self.”
There are some days when it seems like no matter where we turn, someone has a problem with something about us. Whether it’s our weight, shape, hair color, personality, or even our preferences, the whole world seems to have a strong opinion about it.
But guess what – yours is the only opinion that matters, so it’s time to fully embrace who you are, including your quirks, wrinkles, folds, marks, and even your scars. You are beautiful, amazing, and wholly unique – which also means that no one can love you like you can love yourself – and that makes self-care the most powerful thing you can do for yourself!
When you practice self-care, you are telling your mind, body, and spirit that you love, accept, and cherish all that is you! Not only does that bring harmony and contentment to your life, but it can forever change the way you perceive the world around you, the way you allow others to treat you, and the choices you make for yourself. In addition, when you love yourself, you attract others who will love you for exactly who you are!
With that in mind, I have a short assignment for you.
It may not seem fun at first, but I promise by the end of the exercise, you’re going to have a sneak peek at what fully loving yourself can do for you, and you will never want to turn back!
Get out a notebook or journal, or sit down at your computer and open up a new document if you prefer. You can even use the memo tool on your smartphone or tablet if you’re not currently at home. Now, I want you to write down what you perceive to be your flaws. Be specific. Be detailed. Do not continue reading this until you’ve completed that step.
Seriously. Stop reading and come back when you’ve got your list, paragraph, etc.
Okay, now that you’ve completed that step, I want you to reread what you wrote. Were you kind to yourself? What kind of words did you use? Did you describe yourself the way you’d describe your friend or someone you love? Or did you describe yourself the way you might describe a stranger, or worse yet, a villain in a book or movie?
Go back and rewrite what you wrote in a loving tone as if you were talking about your most favorite person in the world. How much different does your word use and language become? Suddenly that tiny scar on your nose, dimple on your chin, stretch mark on your belly, or odd-shaped toe seems cuter, more unique, and more YOU!
I encourage you to begin viewing these “faults” or “flaws” as simply distinguishing marks that showcase who you are, what you’ve been through, and how you’re unique from everyone else in the world. This understanding is the attitude of someone who truly loves themselves, appreciates themselves, and prioritizes themselves.
If you’re unsure how to fully make this transition, subscribing to Passion & Growth is an excellent first step. Each month, we’ll send you tools and resources that will encourage you to spend more time with yourself and seek out the aspects of yourself that make you special, unique, and worthy of your own love.
