There will be times in your life when you have to take the road less traveled. When you need to make a decision that even if it hurts, it’s the only option that will allow you to feel good about yourself and your choices. Knowing that even though you may be feeling sad about the outcome, there’s a part of you that feels so very empowered to know that you didn’t let yet another person walk all over you.
That is the power of self respect.
It’s not something that we all have, but it sure as hell is something that every single one of us can develop over time.
Even if all you have is a tiny seed of self respect and a tiny sliver of sunlight to nurture it, plant that seed. Water it with self love and by putting yourself first. It will begin to grow into a beautiful delicate seedling.
But like a seedling, it will need to be cared for. Nurture it by putting your needs and best interests above the whims of someone else, not in a selfish way, but in the most loving way possible. And soon that seedling will grow into a sapling, and before long it will become a tree with the strength of a giant redwood.
It is then that you will feel empowered when you have to make a tough decision. Even when it hurts.
That is the power of self respect. Go plant that seed.
Beautiful! You write so beautifully! I love this article. Never truer words written.
Thank you so much, Sakhile!