“Love yourself first and everything else falls into line. You really have to love yourself to get anything done in this world.”
Lucille Ball 1911-1989, Comedian, Actress and Television Executive
I strive for a life where there are more joyful days than sad ones, more exciting times than dull ones, and more abundance than lack. While I do recognize that the process of life may take me through times where there is rain, there will always be a rainbow and a treasure when the storm passes. I ask myself what can I do to make the times where I feel overwhelmed by the “rainy” days better. I come back to the one thing I can control, that is to make a conscious decision to love myself first. What does this mean? Well in today’s context, this could sound egocentric or selfish. But, I am here to challenge that – there is a reason that on an airplane you are advised to place the oxygen mask over your face BEFORE you can assist anyone else. If you don’t take care of yourself and love yourself first, how can you be present to anyone else. It is really that important. Take the time and listen to what your heart is telling you, do you need quiet time alone, do you need to get a massage, do you need to stop berating yourself and acknowledge the amazing person that you are. Remember, when you are kind and gentle with yourself, life becomes easier to handle, especially during the challenging times. I often need to be reminded of this. Loving yourself does not mean you are not in service to others, it is the highest form of service to others. How you treat yourself, especially if it is positive, has a wonderful impact on those around you and the world. So take some time and look into the mirror and acknowledge your own beauty within and you are well on your way to accomplishing whatever you set out to do today!
