Happy Monday, everyone! Or as I like to call it, “Welcome to another episode of ‘Why is this week so long already?’” Just a heads-up: today’s post is going to be a bit blunt and straightforward. Let’s cut through the fluff and get real.
I woke up this morning in a quiet household, with my teenagers and my favorite fur child, a Pomeranian, fast asleep (yes, they do that a lot, and no, I’m not holding my breath). As I prepared my coffee and sat down, I found myself thinking about how often we unfairly blame ourselves for things that aren’t our fault. It’s like we’re programmed to think we’re the problem, when often, it’s just the opposite.
Okay, ladies, let’s ditch the typical self-help jargon and get real for a minute. We’ve all been there – the childhood friend who made you feel inadequate, the toxic relationship that drained your energy. We’ve doubted ourselves, blamed ourselves, and tried to be perfect for people who didn’t appreciate us. Here’s the truth: It’s not your fault. You’re not broken. You’re not too much, and you’re definitely not too little. You are enough, just as you are.
But here’s the other truth: You can’t keep giving your energy to people and situations that drain you. You can’t keep sacrificing your happiness for the sake of others. It’s time to set some boundaries, sister.
I’m tired of those who play the victim role, insisting they aren’t victims but still craving all the attention, waiting for Prince Charming to swoop in and save the day. Spoiler alert: Prince Charming is made of tin foil and doesn’t have a rescue plan. It’s high time we rise for ourselves and become our own heroes. And let’s talk about those who can’t say no, who bend over backwards for everyone and then wonder why they’re exhausted. Sure, setting aside 15 minutes a day might feel like an impossible task—believe me, I’ve heard all the “I can’t” excuses. But I’m doing it, even managing 20 minutes a day. It’s not much, but it’s something. I used to be the queen of excuses, avoiding rising up for myself, but here I am, doing it despite the chaos that life throws my way.
That means saying “no” without guilt, walking away from relationships that don’t serve you, and prioritizing your own needs for a change. And let’s be real, what is staying in those places getting you? A medal for martyrdom? A trophy for enduring guilt? Spoiler alert: it’s not. (And I’m not talking about abusive relationships here, because I’ve been in one and no one can tell you when to leave.)
Start with small steps. Saying “no” might feel uncomfortable at first, like trying to walk in heels after months of wearing sneakers, but trust me, it’s worth it. Picture this: you, guilt-free, prioritizing your own needs and actually feeling happy. Revolutionary, right?
Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and face masks (though those are nice too). It’s about setting aside time for yourself every single day, even if it’s just for 15 minutes. It’s about eating healthy, moving your body, and doing things that bring you joy.
And it’s about forgiving yourself for past mistakes and letting go of the baggage that’s weighing you down. I see you there, thinking “How?” and rolling your eyes. Hold on, because this is a topic for another post—you’re not off the hook. It’s about recognizing that you deserve happiness, love, and respect.
So, here’s to us, the women who are tired of playing small, who are done with the drama, and who are ready to reclaim our power. Let’s build those fortresses of self-respect, one brick at a time. Let’s create lives that are filled with joy, authenticity, and unapologetic self-love.
Today’s Wisdom:
"You alone are enough. You have nothing to prove to anybody.” — Maya Angelou
Maya Angelou was an acclaimed American poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist. Her work, which includes the famous autobiography “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” has inspired millions around the world with its themes of resilience, empowerment, and self-worth.
This quote is particularly relevant to today’s post because it underscores the importance of recognizing your inherent value and setting boundaries. It serves as a powerful reminder that you don’t need to seek validation from others or conform to their expectations to feel worthy. By embracing this mindset, you can begin to reclaim your power, prioritize your own needs, and build a life filled with joy, authenticity, and unapologetic self-love.
Remember keep whispering your truth- because your reality is yours to create, and the power to shape your life is in your hands.
Leila ❤️