She Strengthens

Embracing Self-Love: The Key to a Fulfilling Life

Have you ever stopped to think about the longest relationship you’ll have in your lifetime? It’s not with your partner, family, or friends – it’s with yourself. Nurturing this relationship is crucial to living a life that’s truly abundant and aligned with your values.

Prioritizing Your Own Needs

Margaret from Austin, Texas, shared her struggles with putting herself first, despite making her mental and physical well-being a priority. She wondered how to hold space for herself without feeling selfish or guilty. This is a common dilemma many of us face.

Holding Space for Yourself

Holding space means being present with yourself, without judgment. It’s about listening to your needs, acting from a place of self-love, trust, and respect, and practicing empathy and compassion. This is the essence of putting yourself first.

The Misconception of Being a “Good Person”

Being a good person can be defined in many ways, but often, we sacrifice our own well-being to serve others. This can lead to burnout and resentment. When we prioritize ourselves, we realize that being a good person starts with how we treat ourselves. By doing so, we can engage with others in a more authentic and heartfelt way.

Checking In with Yourself

So, how do you know if you’re putting yourself first? One simple practice is to tune in to your own needs and desires. Ask yourself questions like:

• How do I feel today?
• Do I have space mentally, emotionally, and physically to help someone else?
• What’s important to me today?
• How can I best care for myself today?

Saying No Without Guilt

Saying no isn’t about rejecting others; it’s about standing up for your own values, principles, and needs. To hold space without guilt, try:

• Delaying your answer to remove pressure
• Making a counter-offer if you want to help but can’t commit fully
• Being firm in your answer without justification
• Keeping explanations brief to avoid opening the door for negotiation

Embracing Your Worth

Remember, holding space for yourself is necessary. Putting yourself first is not selfish; it’s essential to living a fulfilling life. By doing so, you’ll elevate your mindset and reset your priorities.

Take the First Step

I challenge you to hold space for yourself and put yourself in the first position. Start by asking yourself the questions above and prioritize your own needs. You deserve it!