Forgive Yourself - It's ok to have a bad day...

     Have you ever felt off, miserable, blah like you just can't muster the strength to do what must be done? I'm feeling that right now. I'm behind on my group posts, my business paperwork, my chores. I'm not even sure I've got enough clean underpants to last the rest of the week, and it's only Tuesday. Lately, I've had a lot of health issues and they've been dragging me down like swimming with brick shoes and "self-care" has been the furthest thing from my mind. You know what I've been doing instead? Racking myself with guilt.
     I've been beating myself up for being tired, for not accomplishing things, for falling behind. Sound familiar? I feel like women are taught to forgive everyone but themselves. What would I say to my best friend if she were feeling this way right now? How would I comfort someone who is sick and overwhelmed? And why do I extend this love and generosity to others but not myself? Stop. Take a deep breath.
     It is OK to be human. It is normal to get overwhelmed or feel sick and like you are failing everyone, but when you do, you MUST stop and take a deep breath. I am saying this to you as much as I am myself. Look in the mirror and imagine your best friend. Imagine they are telling you everything they are feeling right now. What do you tell them? Say what you say to them, out loud, and say it to your reflection.
     "It's ok. Just breathe girl. I've got your back. You are beautiful, and kind, and amazing. Things are really tough right now and it's totally ok to feel your feelings, but I promise, this too shall pass. You are not a failure, you are not a bad person. No one hates you, and if they do, to hell with them - anyone who can't see how amazing you are isn't worth your time. So cry if you need to cry, yell if you need to yell, just let it all out. I see you girl. I accept you. I love you. It's gonna be ok."
     How does it feel to be on the receiving end of your own love and acceptance? Pretty powerful stuff. You and me, we got this girl.