Choosing Yourself: Giving Yourself the Grace You So Freely Give to Others

Choosing Yourself: Giving Yourself the Grace You So Freely Give to Others

We are often our own harshest critics. We extend patience, understanding, and kindness to those we love, yet when it comes to ourselves, we can be relentless—demanding more, pushing harder, and holding ourselves to impossible standards. But what if we chose to turn that same grace inward?

Grace is in the way you gently hold space for others, allowing them to be imperfect without judgment. It’s in your patience when a friend is struggling, your willingness to see their pain, and your reminder that they are still worthy, still whole, even in their hardest moments. That same grace—the one you so effortlessly give—belongs to you, too.

Choosing Yourself Is Not Selfish

Society often tells us that prioritizing ourselves is selfish. But the truth is, you cannot pour from an empty cup. Choosing yourself doesn’t mean abandoning others; it means honoring your own needs so you can show up as your best self. It means recognizing that your well-being matters just as much as anyone else’s.

When you choose yourself, you:

• Set boundaries that protect your energy.

• Listen to your body when it asks for rest.

• Speak to yourself with kindness instead of criticism.

• Allow yourself to make mistakes without shame.

• Honor your emotions instead of suppressing them.

Giving Yourself the Grace You Give to Others

Think about how you comfort a loved one who is struggling. You remind them that they are not defined by their failures. You encourage them to rest when they’re exhausted. You don’t rush their healing—you trust their process.

Now, imagine offering yourself that same love.

When you feel like you’re not doing enough, remind yourself: I am human. I am doing my best.

When you make a mistake, tell yourself: I am learning. I extend myself grace.

When you feel like giving up, whisper: I am worthy of patience, just as I would be with someone I love.

Embracing the Journey of Self-Compassion

Choosing yourself is not a one-time decision—it’s a daily practice. It’s in the little moments when you choose to rest instead of overwork, to release perfectionism, to soften instead of judge. It’s understanding that your worth has never been tied to how much you accomplish, how perfectly you perform, or how well you meet others’ expectations.

You are worthy, whole, and enough—just as you are.

So today, and every day after, choose yourself. Give yourself the grace you so freely give to others. Because you, too, deserve gentleness. You, too, deserve love. You, too, deserve grace.

With love,

Jennifer ❤️❤️