02/11/2022
Self-Respect. This concept has always somewhat eluded me. Not that I didn't think I was worthy of respect, just that I wasn't entirely sure what it meant to practice self-respect.
I can tell you, as a lifelong "people pleaser", this is still a hard one for me. I have always bent over backwards for others, even when it was unhealthy for me to do so. I find it difficult and confusing to try to balance being nice with having limits. I am realizing, though, that it is true what they say. I can't expect others to show respect to me, if I don't show respect to myself. So, I am working on this. I am trying each day to know my boundaries and enforce them with those who try to barrel right past them. And it is hard!
I am learning to step out of an conversation that is turning into bargaining or arguing.
I am learning to say "No" when I need to. And then sticking to it.
I am learning to prioritize the things I need to do for myself over the things others want me to do.
And, as I said, it is hard. But it is necessary.
And, as I go through this process, I am learning to like myself a little more. Will others like me less? Maybe. But if they only like me for what I can do for them, then I am okay with that.
Do you find self-respect difficult to practice? Do you have any tips or tricks to make it easier? Any advice for keeping yourself accountable?
