LOH #166: Choosing happiness and putting self-love first!

"I don't deserve this."

I tell myself these things whenever I see something I need or want. I'm the kind of person who always feels like I don't deserve things, so I'm always hesitant to buy them for myself.

Yes, I consider myself to be selfless. That way of thinking has shaped me to be the provider. But because I'm constantly evaluating my family's future needs, though I've saved enough money, I tend to put aside my necessities.

I admit that there are moments when I wish I were others because I see other girls happy, doing and owning things they love.

I was very self-conscious, insecure, and jealous of other people as a result.

I was drawn to and encouraged to participate in Contest #166 in LOH this week, initiated by @merit.ahama. I wanted to share the lessons I learned in 2023 that helped me as a woman and the things I plan to change or begin doing for myself in 2024.

1️⃣ What is the one lesson or knowledge you learned this year that benefitted you as a lady?
2️⃣ What would you do differently or start doing for yourself next year?

In 2023, I became knowledgeable about Self-Love!

Self-love is an incredibly potent and transformational force many people undervalue or ignore. It's about appreciating our worth and that of others rather than being arrogant or self-centred. In a society that frequently prioritizes outside approval and comparison, learning to love oneself can be a profound act of self-care and a necessary component of living a happy and purposeful life.

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, our minds must treat us better. It can feel like little jabs or feelings that surface, and negative thoughts can feel heavy and oversized, frequently leading us to believe that we are undeserving of good things in life.

Even though I had made significant progress in my life, I also realized that I hadn't given myself enough credit for all the good things I had done.

Instead, I refused to accept the little adjustments I had painstakingly made that helped me become the best version of myself.

I would be so hard on myself that I had conditioned my mind to believe I wasn't worthy of anything good without realizing it.

I constantly research opposing viewpoints instead of becoming overwhelmed by what I have because I continuously consider the "what ifs" and "future problems" that might occur.

I never gave myself the chance to recognize all of my hard work. Regardless of how big or small the accomplishment was, I didn't get it.

The moment arrived when I started to feel defeated in everything I attempted; all the negative things captured my heart, and I began to lose motivation because I was worn out and burned out.

Then, one evening, as I was crying and staring at the mirror, I decided to stop and start treating myself better.

I understood the value of "Me Time," which is when I shop by myself and acquire what I need and want. I occasionally go outside and eat my favourite foods.

It was also satisfying to realize that I could treat myself by occasionally visiting a salon and feeling beautiful.

Along with spending time with my loved ones and occasionally treating ourselves to necessities and wants without worrying about future costs, these are other ways that I find happiness.

I've learned two things about 2023: choosing to be happy is crucial, and self-love is power. Yes, it makes me feel better and motivates me to work harder. It also greatly aids in the removal of my burnout.

It's gratifying and satisfying. Being kind to oneself reduces stress, boosts emotional stability, and enhances general well-being.

Your self-perception shapes your worldview.

Compassion and unwavering acceptance of oneself are hallmarks of self-love. It involves attending to your needs, fulfilling them, and enabling you to think without bias. It is believing you are good, worthy, valuable, and entitled to happiness.

Choosing to be happy is essential.

We can choose to be happy at all times. Although it can be frustrating, changing our attitudes is ultimately worthwhile. When we decide to be happy, things usually go our way, and luck seems to be on our side. Even if things don't turn out how you had hoped, choosing happiness allows you to accept life's hand and make the most of it.

Happiness has a good effect on us, our mental health, and others. Happiness is an engaging concept that should never be treated carelessly!

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I want to push myself beyond my comfort zone and continue to travel in 2024. I intend to pursue a doctorate to further my professional development and take even better care of myself.

I want to choose happiness and self-love even more this year despite all the terrible things that have happened in the past!