If I could tell my younger self one thing it would be this, have courage to shine brightly! You see, I knew that I was special. Please know, I am not saying this in an egotistical way. I knew in my heart that I had a special mission on earth and I still believe that today. My problem was I was afraid of what others thought of me constantly. This lead me to make decisions not for myself but for others. In time, my light within was slowing dwindling. I was loosing passion and zest for life. I was doing damage to myself for not being authentic to who I am.
I LOVE this quote by Marianne Williamson “as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.” I realize that by me acting small, I wasn’t doing anyone any favors, especially myself. God wants us to shine bright and don’t let that little voice in your head tell you otherwise! You got that straight!?! LOL! Now, let me share with you 3 reasons why you should shine bright like a diamond:
1. Self Love Is The Best Love
My younger self was striving to be unselfish to my family and friends. I am grateful that God has given me a kind heart. I am constantly working at being more kind, patient, and compassionate (and my three kids sure help me get a lot of practice with this)!
However, being a softie often meant I was taken advantage of and disrespected by others. It was because I didn’t understand how critical it was to love yourself first. It is not selfish to focus on your own goals and desires. It is important to put your needs first so you have the ability to give to others fully.
2. SPEAK YOUR TRUTH
If you were to put me in a debate team, I would lose arguments left and right and create some unhappy team members! I just don’t have an argumentative bone and hate confrontation. I can’t help it, I am recovering people pleaser. I love to make people happy! There is another side to this coin. Over time, I realized that if I didn’t communicate my thoughts, wishes, and desires I would become resentful of the situation, others and me.
I hate feeling this way! I am still learning to fully speak from the heart. I guess I am secretly scared of rejection. However, each time I use my voice authentically and stand for something I believe in, my soul becomes stronger. I believe we must speak our truth and stay true to it.
3. BE EXACTLY WHO YOU ARE
God created you just the way you are. You do not have to prove yourself to anyone. You are enough. All you need to do is BE YOURSELF. Since, blogging two years ago, this journey has really taught me that. You are deserving and full of light. Have the courage to be exactly who you are. Wherever you are in life is exactly where you need to be right now. Isn’t that beautiful? Be unapologetically you!
Never doubt yourself….as poetically told by Rihanna “Shine bright like a diamond!”
Dress: c/o Windsor
Clutch: c/o A’GACI, old | similar here
Earrings: Nordstrom Rack, unavailable | similar here
Shoes: Sam Edelman, old | similar here
Lipstick: Buxom
Photography: Bleudogfotography
Follow me on Instagram.
