There are so many times in our lives when we hold back on caring for ourselves because we think it is selfish to do so.  When we do this too often it becomes a habit and before we know it, we are pouring ourselves out so much that there is nothing left in our ‘container.’

This is just unhealthy – no other way to put it – unhealthy, and not only for yourself, but for those around you.  

So, what exactly the distinction between self-ish and self-love?

It is not selfish to:

  • take time each day to meditate/exercise.  And, when you set your intention and attention to God, then it becomes prayer.
  • Stop – stop throughout your day to breathe and look around.  There is much to learn throughout our days if we don’t rush through them.
  • Set your attention on what you are doing at each moment, especially if it is something that you don’t like doing!  Think about the present moment and focus your mind and your heart on your present task.  It really makes a difference.
  • Stop turning yourself into a pretzel to please others.  
  • Set boundaries!  This is a big one!  It’s OK to say NO!  You don’t have to be cruel, there are many ways to choose ‘no.’  It’s so important!  It is self-nurturing.

 You matter, you have value, your opinion counts, and most of all, God loves you!  

God wants us to be free and to love ourselves. By doing this, we honor and praise Him.

When we truly love ourselves as God wants us to do, that love cannot help but emanate from us to all those around us.  This self-love results in self-respect and the respect of others.  

There is a big difference between self-ish and self-love.