When our hearts are hungry, we come from a place of lack and increased vulnerability. We are so starved for intimacy and companionship that we overlook red flags and the ability to look at things clearly. We are willing to suspend our disbelief about our partner because we seeking to fill a void within us and looking to feel like we belong or are loved.
Think back to some of your relationships. Whether it was a romantic partner, business partner or friend, have there been times that you have wondered how you could have believed what they said? Or fallen for their lies?
You aren’t stupid. You may have overlooked ref flags or believed what they said because you…needed to. You may have settled for less than you deserve because you were afraid to be alone. And you know what? That makes you human.
All that being said, it is our responsibility to do all that we can to protect our hearts without losing the ability to be vulnerable with others. We are still going to experience heartbreak because that is just part of life. But if we nourish our own hearts, we can put ourselves in a better position to not be taken advantage of and know when we are being mistreated.
Here are some ways to nourish yourself and give yourself the unconditional love you deserve:
- Accept yourself flaws and all. No one is perfect and we are going to make mistakes along the way.
- Forgive yourself for mistakes you have made. We learn a lot about who we are and what we want by making mistakes. They are just part of the process.
- Practice self-care daily. Whether it’s getting in physical exercise, writing in a journal, meditating or doing something that recharges you, make it a daily habit.
- Make peace with your inner critic. Be nice to yourself. It’s okay to be unhappy with yourself about some things. Just stop attacking yourself. Acknowledge your feelings about it and focus your energy and thoughts on what you are doing to change the things you don’t like. We are all works of progress and we are not in a race.
- Prioritize relationships that inspire you or make you feel recharged.
If you are struggling with ways to practice self-care, we have a whole section on this website that talks about it. You can check it out here.
