Love resides in several places

Hey there!

You’re probably not reading this on a bad day. But if you are, I’ve got something for you. No, I’m not about to list 5 ways to feel good instantly. I’m sure Google/AI already has that covered. So what's this about?

A little background first. Whenever I feel low, nervous, anxious, or weighed down by anything negative, I try to pull the focus back to myself. I remind myself that I exist. That other people’s opinions don’t define me. That everyone has flaws. That I don’t need to be perfect at everything I do. And honestly, I believe this should be our first instinct. Our first effort.

Does it come easy to me? Of course not.

The moment I deliberately try to focus on myself, my mind runs everywhere else. It circles, spirals, and somehow manages to avoid coming back to me altogether.

It only gets worse.

But a few days ago, when I was stuck in the same loop, trying to remember myself, something unexpected happened. By some unknown force, I was reminded that there are people around me who don’t just tolerate me. They genuinely love me. A bold and slightly questionable choice on their part, but they’ve stuck with it for years now and still haven’t run away.

That thought changed something.

It made me realise that if there are 3 people who disrespect me or think I’m unworthy, there are at least 15 who would worry if they didn’t hear from me for months. At least 5 who would fight for me. And at least 1 who loves me more than anyone else in the world. So why am I letting those 3 morons take up space in my head? Why should I ever feel the need to prove my worth to self-important, narrow-minded people?

This happens far too often in corporate life. And some days, my brain simply cannot handle the pressure of constantly reminding myself that I love me, and that this should be enough. So until I get better at that, I’ll keep reminding myself of the people who love me. It’s easier. And honestly, it’s worth it.

Self love doesn’t come easily to everyone, especially for those who have been through a lot. We often seek validation, maybe because of that, or maybe for reasons we don’t fully understand yet. All I know is that it isn’t easy for everyone.

So until it is, let’s remember what truly deserves to be remembered.

Hugs,
A.