“To love oneself is the beginning of a life-long romance” – Oscar Wilde (Irish Poet, Novelist, Dramatist and Critic, 1854-1900)
I recently did a presentation to a group of young mothers (17 to 21) to encourage them to continue their education. One young mom was ready to return to school last year when she discovered she was pregnant with twins. She’s now 21 years old with four children.
After the presentation I spoke with an expert who organizes and facilitates programs teaching young moms parenting skills. I ask her, “Why do you think young women have babies?” Not taking time to think about the question she immediately answered “They’re looking for love. They do not love themselves and are desperately trying to find it externally in the fathers and children.”
I was saddened to hear this but couldn’t help but think back to when I was their age and how I too felt lost and chased after love. I may not have taken it to the extreme that these young women have but part of me understands where they are coming from.
It wasn’t until I was in my early 30’s when I realized that the void or emptiness I felt wasn’t going to be found externally. What I’ve come to realize is that I’m the one I’ve been looking for.
Invest In Yourself
Loving yourself is believing in your own worthiness and nurturing a healthy sense of self-regard. Accepting and loving who you are means actively caring for every facet of yourself.
It shows up in every action you take, from protecting yourself from those who hurt you to leaving a job that does not fulfill you. It’s really about tuning in to your own wants/needs and honoring them the way you want them to be.
It’s an inside job…
Learn to take the time to tap into the inner reaches of your heart and soul to discover all that you are worth – because what you see and often admire in others is what you should really be valuing in yourself.
Posted by Henrietta on June 23, 2011 at 1:23 pm
Shoot, who would have tohguht that it was that easy?
Posted by hocevlie on June 26, 2011 at 8:36 am
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