What does “self care” really mean?

2020 is definitely a year where we are all thrown onto the wagon of uncertainty regardless of our own freewill. Despite the many heart breaking moments of this year, we are still hanging in the midst of this storm. We were so used to wake up to know exactly what we plan to do for the day ahead of us. We are accustomed to be in control from the moment that we are born. But there are so many things not in our control in life.

Even though we are all experiencing differnent struggles in our daily lives, we share the common emotional responses to situations beyond our capcities to accept. And that’s okay. Life is a journey to self discovery, and accepting every version of you is the beginning to the fullness of life. There’s no one but you need to take care first, and that does not mean that you should become self centered. Because only when you truly know how to handle your own emotional health, you would be able to do the same for the people you love.

I don’t know about you, but I used to be someone who has planned out exactly what I should be doing at what age. And that’s exactly what has led to my emotional exhaustion, and lost my sense of direction. But now as I spend more time to reflect upon myself, the more I know that it is important to let go of those expectations. Because no one can predict the future, and accepting the possibility fo delays, setbacks in your plans, can actually lead to profound peace in your mind.

Life is a journey, and not a race. We spent so much time comparing our lives to others, without appreciating the simpliest things that we have on a daily basis. I’m not saying that to say your life is easy and that you should get over it. No, that’s completely contrary to my message. I believe that everyone is fighting a battle that no one else could understand, and no one else has a say in anyone else’s life choices. But I want to share my treasure in the darkness, and that is to practice being grateful . Being grateful of every meal you get to have everyday, being grateful of every person who greet you with a smile, and being grateful of every chance you get to talk to your loved ones. Being grateful fills up my heart everyday, despite the dark thoughts that might still creep up sometimes.

I don’t know who will be reading this, or what you are going through right now. But I just want you to know, that there would always be someone who loves you for who you are. But before you truly believe that, you need to love yourself first! Your words, actions and kindness matter so much! Love is your superpower. Never doubt.

We all make mistakes in life, because we are inperfect human beings. But those mistakes should not define you as a person, and certainly do not mean that you can not change. It is the decision that you make to admit your flaws, and to stand up again after every time that you have fallen, defines who you are. Trust me, because we are all allowed to be forgiven and renewed.

2020 might actually be the year where we become a stronger version of ourselves. Be gentle with your words, and be courageous in facing every challenge. Take care! Don’t look back! Everyday is a gift to you!