Be kind to... YOURSELF!

Life as we experience it is incredibly challenging, with daily stress, various life changes, and uncertainties. Each of us embarks on a unique journey. While I advocate for paying it forward, helping others, and treating people with kindness—which everyone should do—it's also important to be kind to yourself. Take time to recognize the hard work you're doing. Appreciate how you treat others and express gratitude towards yourself. We tend to be our harshest critics, and if we allow negative thoughts to dominate, we impose excessive pressure on ourselves, leading to stress, anxiety, and depression. In tough times, finding solace in our unwavering kindness towards ourselves can become essential for our well-being.

“to love oneself, is the beginning of a life-long romance”

- Oscar Wilde

From a young age, we're often instructed on how to behave, but self-love is rarely emphasized. Society dictates certain standards, and many strive to meet them. However, I urge you to pause, look in the mirror, and express gratitude with kindness. Thank yourself for doing your best, for the life you've been given, for both the challenging and joyful moments, and for those who care about you. We often place immense pressure on ourselves—whether it's work, relationships, or family issues. Personally, I've always worn my heart on my sleeve, prioritizing loved ones over my own needs, ensuring everyone is okay. It's both a blessing and a curse. Many people are like this, leading to significant stress as we neglect self-kindness. We often forget to care for ourselves in our quest to please others, losing ourselves in the process, which can spiral out of control. There are countless scenarios beyond my own. When we neglect self-kindness and gratitude, our minds shut down, and the ego takes over. Witnessing loved ones struggle with depression is heartbreaking, as they can't simply snap out of it and often feel unworthy of self-kindness. This is why I encourage taking a few moments daily, morning or night, to thank yourself, acknowledge your efforts, and be gentle with yourself. This small practice, over time, can make a difference. Comfort yourself, as facing each day can be daunting when anticipating pain and sadness. Thus, find something to look forward to each day, no matter how small. Life is challenging; people may judge, hurt, or stress you, whether through work or family. In these moments, be kind to yourself, knowing you're doing your best. Darkness is tough, and shedding light on it is essential. *There will be times when everything seems insurmountable, and change feels impossible. You need a catalyst for change, and that catalyst is hope. Hope is intertwined with kindness, encouraging belief in eventual improvement and well-being.* If this seems overly simplistic, try visualizing something that brings you joy or imagine yourself in a vibrant garden. Creating mental happiness can lead to real happiness. Be open to new ideas, perhaps adjusting to enhance self-compassion. Approach change with kindness. In one of my previous blogs, I discussed change, which often frightens people, and that's okay. I view change as upgrading tools in your toolkit. You don't need to change who you are, just make adjustments along your journey. To pursue happiness and enlightenment, you must make adjustments to stay on course; otherwise, you'll face two paths—one desirable and one detrimental. The ego and negativity may lure you toward the easier, harmful path. The desired path requires effort, which many find challenging. Therefore, gratitude, kindness, compassion, and empathy are essential tools for illuminating your destined path. When you shine brightly, navigating the beautiful path becomes easier. Be patient, as this transformation won't happen instantly; it may take years, but it will be okay. Be the light that shines so brightly it can't be taken away. Don't let the ego dominate your mind. I emphasize that we have only one journey here, and we must make it the best! Life will challenge you, but you are strong enough to handle it. BE the best, BE the brightest, BE love, BE compassion, BE empathetic! BE strong, BE kind to yourself!

MUCH LOVE

XOXO