A Lesson in Love
"It's not selfish to love yourself, take care of yourself, and to make your happiness a priority. It's necessary,” - Mandy Hale. I invite you on a heartfelt journey with me, as I share a personal tale of rediscovering self-love. In this week’s blog post, I unfold the transformative process of recognizing when it's time to prioritize your well-being over a friendship, doing so with grace and profound love for both yourself and the cherished bond of friendship.
Several years ago I had entered into a business agreement with a friend. I had considered it a life-long commitment and didn’t think about it again until recently. I had the opportunity to meet with another person in regard to a similar situation. Although it was somewhat the same, there were several added opportunities that hadn’t been presented or given. As a side note, I took the meeting on the request of my daughter.
At the end of the meeting I thanked the person for their guidance but mentioned the person handling my current business was a personal friend. As soon as I hung up, my daughter looked at me and reminded me I was putting the friendship over my well-being. The situation wasn’t personal, it was business, and would only affect my future. Then and there I knew she was right and I had to find the proper way and words to own my worth and take the actions that were best for me with thoughtfuless.
My words didn’t come easy but they were wrapped in layers of love, grace, understanding and a thankful heart. I found the courage to choose me, to put myself first, and to own my value, worth, and future. It felt like a very grown-up thing to do with courage and humility.
If you find yourself in a similar situation it is never too late to choose yourself, to love yourself enough to pursue the path that leads to your true happiness. Try these steps:
1. Introspection - Begin with a heart-to-heart conversation with yourself, and reflect upon the relationship in question.
Am I nurturing my own dreams and aspirations?
Is this friendship or situation allowing me to grow, or is it holding me back?
What steps can I take to honor my feelings and desires?
2. Set Boundaries - Boundaries are the beautiful fences that protect you. With kindness and grace, articulate your boundaries. Setting boundaries is not building walls but creating spaces where respect and understanding can flourish.
Communicate your feelings honestly, yet gently.
Let them know your needs.
Be prepared to enforce your boundaries consistently, yet lovingly.
3. Repeat - As often as needed
In life, sometimes we find ourselves swaying to the music of others, often forgetting the melody that resonates with our own heart. We cherish friendships that have stood the test of time, and yet, there comes a moment when we must pause, listen deeply, and have the courage to move to our own beat. This experience was a lesson in love for me. Is there a lesson in love waiting for you too?
xoxox…..Sheryl
PS … Remember, boundaries go both ways.
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