She Strengthens

Embracing Self-Love: The Key to a Fulfilling Life

Understanding the Importance of Self-Love

Have you ever heard the phrase “you’ve got to fall in love with yourself first”? While many women may dismiss this idea, the truth is that the longest relationship you’ll have in life is with yourself. Therefore, nurturing yourself is crucial for living a life that’s together, abundant, and truly aligned with your values.

Putting Yourself First Without Feeling Guilty

Margaret from Austin, Texas, asked a thought-provoking question: “How can we hold space for ourselves without feeling selfish or guilty?” The answer lies in understanding what it means to hold space for yourself. It’s about being present with yourself, without judgment, and willing to listen to your own needs, act from a grounded place of self-love, trust, and respect, and practice empathy and compassion.

The Misconception of Being a “Good Person”

Being a “good person” has different definitions for each of us. However, when we prioritize others over ourselves, we often do unkind things to ourselves while serving others without question. The truth is, being a good person starts with how we treat ourselves. When we treat ourselves well, we can engage with others in a grounded and heartfelt way.

Checking In with Yourself

So, how do you know if you’re putting yourself first? The answer is yes, there are ways to check in! One simple practice is to tune in and turn inward, asking yourself questions like:

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

Holding Space Without Guilt

Saying no isn’t about the “no”; it’s about standing up for your own values, principles, and needs. Here are some tips to help you hold space without guilt:

• Delay your answer to remove pressure and give yourself time to think.
• Make a counter-offer if you want to help but don’t have the time to commit.
• Be firm in your answer and avoid justifying or explaining.
• Keep your explanation brief if you need to explain.

Embracing Your Priorities

Holding space for yourself is necessary, and there’s nothing wrong with putting yourself first. By being honest, firm, and kind to yourself, you can offer yourself the same kindness you do for others. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup, so prioritize your own needs and desires.

Take the First Step

I challenge you to hold space for yourself and put yourself in the first position! Doing so is an essential life tool that helps elevate and reset your mindset.