You Matter

I grew up in a family where you respected your elders.  Children were to speak when spoken to.  And I was taught that family comes before everyone else (including yourself.) 

When I did try to put myself first, I was told that I was selfish and ridiculed for thinking I was better than the family who raised me.  Nothing I said made them understand that wanting something better for myself didn’t mean they weren’t good enough.  Wanting more meant that they did their job and I had the freedom to fly!  That’s what children are supposed to do. 

I spent most of my life taking care of other people because that’s what I was “supposed to do.”  I was taught that it was my responsibility and I had to be superwoman because everyone was looking to me.  And if one of the younger children messed up, it was my fault because I… 

That’s a lot of pressure to put on anyone!  I am important!  I matter!  I deserve to put myself first – if I don’t, who will?!?

So I did a lot of soul searching.  I took classes, found a life coach, and now have a business where I can teach others how to make themselves a priority.  Because, as the flight attendants tell you, put your own mask on or you won’t be able to take care of anyone else! 

For those of you who read to the end of this post, please know that my family was great to me.  I don’t blame them for the things they said to me growing up.  They did their job.  I wouldn’t be the strong person I am now if I hadn’t lived the life I had.  I don’t blame anyone else for my issues.  I realize that my issues come from what I tell myself.  The difference is that now I tell myself that I am worth it.  What stories do you tell yourself?