Choosing Me

The other evening, I was sitting with a friend and found myself mentioning how I don’t have a circle of people. Her response gave me an amazing insight that felt like a punch to the gut and an aha moment all rolled into one. She said something along these lines: “It’s because you often believe you aren’t being chosen, so naturally, people end up not choosing you, even though everyone wants to choose you.”

So much truth was spoken in those words. I realized how many moments in my childhood, teenage years, and adult life where I wasn’t chosen for something had imprinted on my soul. This was the narrative I told myself. This was my reality. But even before she articulated this to me, I had been working on changing this perspective.

When I say working on it, I don’t mean creating ways to be chosen by others. Instead, I mean honoring the ways I can and do choose myself. It’s in the acknowledgment of what serves me and how I show up for myself. It’s in choosing myself first, so I can choose others. In return, it doesn’t matter if I’m chosen by anyone else. Knowing I choose me is enough.

Reflecting on my friend's insight, I am sure she was absolutely correct in her assessment. The narrative of not being chosen is a repellent by nature, and I now understand that many people want to choose me. But I have to choose me first.

For me, today, choosing myself looks like saying no to things I do not align with. By saying no, I am choosing to say yes to myself. When all is said and done, in the end, I know I am chosen.

Here are 10 ways you can choose yourself:

1. **Set Boundaries**: Learn to say no to things that do not serve you or align with your values.

2. **Practice Self-Care**: Dedicate time each day to activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul.

3. **Pursue Your Passions**: Engage in hobbies and activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.

4. **Reflect and Meditate**: Spend time in reflection or meditation to connect with your inner self and understand your needs.

5. **Seek Growth**: Continuously strive for personal development through learning and new experiences.

6. **Embrace Your Worth**: Acknowledge your intrinsic value and refuse to settle for less than you deserve.

7. **Surround Yourself with Positivity**: Choose to spend time with people who uplift and support you.

8. **Prioritize Your Health**: Make healthy choices in your diet, exercise, and lifestyle habits.

9. **Celebrate Your Achievements**: Take time to recognize and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small.

10. **Practice Gratitude**: Cultivate a habit of gratitude to focus on the positive aspects of your life.

Thank you for reading, and remember to choose yourself first. #joy ✌️🏝❤️