Caring for One's Self

I think one of the hardest things to do is to love or forgive one's self.  It much easier to love or forgive another.  It's taken me years to learn that, and it wasn't necessarily an easy lesson.  Never mind how I finally figured it out.

The following was found on Facebook, and I have no idea who wrote it.  I do, however, think it's worth posting here.  It makes a lot of sense, at least to me.

12 Steps to Self Care

1- If it feels wrong, don't do it.
2- Say "exactly" what you mean
3- Don't be a people pleaser
4- Trust your instincts
5- Never speak bad of yourself
6- Never give up on your dreams
7- Don't be afraid to say "No"
8- Don't be afraid to say "Yes"
9- Be kind to yourself
10- Let go of what you can't control
11-Stay away from drama and negativity
12- LOVE

One of my favorite self-praises comes from "The Help" where Aibileen coaches Mae, the child entrusted in her care, on a daily basis.  "You is kind, you is smart, you is important!"

Whenever one of my granddaughters decides to be negative about herself, I remind her of this quote and that she is smart, beautiful and important!  It makes no difference what others say, it's what we say to ourselves that counts.

It's the negative self-talk that holds us back.  It's that same negative talk that keeps us from moving forward.  It freezes us in time.

Instead, use positive self-talk, even if you don't really believe it.  Keep repeating it over and over, and eventually you will begin to believe.  Once you believe in yourself, love yourself, and forgive yourself, your life will be so much happier and peaceful and enjoyable.

Try it!  See if you agree!  Just remember:  "You is kind, you is smart, you is important!"



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