Be You. Who else can you be?! As human beings, we possess a natural need to belong and therefore I believe, it is important to acknowledging each other. However, it is equally important to acknowledge yourself. Asking self-reflective questions regarding various areas of life, your identity, values, etc. will lead to a better understanding of oneself.
Belief-systems
Staying true to our uniqueness isn’t always natural for us and one of the root causes is due to passed-on belief-systems. Society has a big influence too, and choosing your own values and beliefs, stand up for your own truth can be difficult. In addition, lots of our neighbors tend to believe it is egotistical to take good care of yourself and to put your own needs before the needs of others.
Over the years, I learned it is one of the most important tasks to do, being kind towards myself and thus taking good care of myself. When I am not feeling well, mentally or physically, I can’t give my best to my neighbors-in-need. Not to anyone actually and also not to myself. Becoming aware of my own values and perspectives helps in choosing the labels/boxes that feel right to me.
At the same time, I also believe it is not wrong at all to use another goal to improve your own well-being. Especially if you happen to be in a dark place and you can’t seem to find your way back to the light. Taking care of a pet, volunteer at a cause to help others, water the plants for your neighbors during their holiday are examples of activities that could help feel better about yourself.
Choice
Life can be harsh and we can’t always control what will be thrown on our path. We do, however, always have a choice how to deal with challenges, what we want to believe, who we invite in our lives, etc. A choice to empower ourselves and take back control:
No shame
It is not a shame to ask for guidance and reach out to someone in case you feel overwhelmed, depressed, or totally lost. Talking to a stranger can be easier at times; a psychologist, counselor or guidance practitioner can help you back on your feet again.
Whether you are in a dark place, or in a joyful place, regardless your situation and environment, we are never done learning, growing and becoming better versions of ourselves. To Be You.
Who else can you be?!
Patty Wolters – Updated April 2020
