Have you ever caught yourself being your harshest critic? Maybe it’s that voice in your head telling you, "You’ll never be good enough," or that sinking feeling when you compare yourself to someone else’s highlight reel. Trust me, I’ve been there. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned on my self-growth journey, it’s this: self-love isn’t just a buzzword or a fleeting trend—it’s a daily practice.
But where do you even start? How do you go from tearing yourself down to building yourself up? That’s what we’re going to explore together. By the time you finish reading this, I hope you’ll have tangible tools to treat yourself with the same kindness you so easily offer to others.
What Does Self-Love Really Mean?
Before we get into the "how," let's talk about the "what." What is self-love? Is it bubble baths and spa days? Sure, sometimes. But at its core, self-love is about valuing yourself as a person. It’s about understanding that you deserve respect, compassion, and care—yes, even when things aren’t perfect.
For a long time, I thought self-love was something you unlocked after achieving a goal. I’d say to myself, “I’ll love myself once I lose 10 pounds” or “I’ll be kinder to myself after I’ve hit that career milestone.” Spoiler alert: the milestones came and went, but the self-love never showed up — because I wasn’t practicing it.
Self-love isn’t conditional. It’s not something you earn when you’re "better" or "fixed." It’s about accepting yourself right now, as you are.
Why Self-Love Is Harder Than It Sounds
If you’ve struggled with self-love, you’re not alone. We live in a world that profits off our insecurities. Think about it—how many ads have you seen with the underlying message, "You’re not enough, but if you buy this, maybe you will be"?
It doesn’t help that many of us grew up with mixed messages. Be confident, but not too confident. Love yourself, but don’t be selfish. It’s no wonder self-love feels confusing and even unachievable at times.
But here’s the truth I wish someone had told me sooner: you can rewrite those narratives. They don’t define you unless you allow them to.
6 Practical Ways to Start Loving Yourself
The good news? Self-love isn’t about one big, life-altering moment. It’s about the small, intentional choices you make every day. Here are six practices that have worked for me—and that I hope will work for you, too.
1. Talk to Yourself Like You Would a Friend
Would you tell your best friend, “You’re such a failure for making that mistake”? Of course not! But how often do you say things like that to yourself?
Start paying attention to your internal dialogue. When you catch yourself being self-critical, pause and ask, “Would I say this to someone I care about?” If the answer is no, try rephrasing it. Instead of, “I’m such a mess,” try, “I’m doing my best, and that’s okay.”
It feels strange at first—I won’t lie. But over time, this small act of kindness can transform the way you see yourself.
2. Set Boundaries (And Stick to Them)
Here’s a tough truth I had to learn the hard way: you can’t love yourself if you’re always sacrificing your well-being to please others. Self-love often looks like saying "no" to things that drain you, so you can say "yes" to what nourishes you.
Maybe it’s declining that extra work project when you’re already swamped. Maybe it’s setting limits with a friend who’s always asking for favors but never reciprocates. Remember, boundaries aren’t selfish—they’re necessary.
3. Celebrate Your Wins (Big and Small)
We’re so quick to celebrate others, but when was the last time you celebrated yourself? And I’m not just talking about the big achievements. Did you get out of bed on a day when anxiety tried to hold you hostage? That’s a win. Did you finally tackle that pile of laundry? Another win.
Try ending each day by writing down three things you’re proud of yourself for. It might feel silly at first, but trust me—it’s a game-changer.
4. Forgive Yourself
I used to carry my mistakes around like heavy luggage. I’d replay them in my head, wondering why I wasn’t smarter, better, or more prepared. But here’s the thing about mistakes: they’re proof that you’re trying, learning, and growing.
Self-love means extending grace to yourself. Forgive yourself for the times you fell short. Treat those moments as lessons, not verdicts.
5. Prioritize Self-Care that Feeds Your Soul
When you hear “self-care,” what comes to mind? For me, it’s not always face masks or long baths—though I do love a good skincare routine. Sometimes, self-care is as simple as going for a walk, eating a meal that nourishes my body, or calling a friend when I feel low.
Ask yourself, “What do I genuinely need right now?” Then honor that need without guilt.
6. Surround Yourself With Positivity
They say you’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with. Who are yours? Do they uplift you, or do they drain you?
Cultivate a circle that encourages self-love and growth. Follow social media accounts that inspire you, join communities that align with your values, and spend time with people who see and celebrate your worth.
Self-Love Is a Journey, Not a Destination
Here’s the thing about self-love that no one really tells you—it’s not a one-and-done deal. Like any relationship, the one with yourself requires ongoing care and attention. There will be days when it feels easier and days when it feels nearly impossible. That’s okay. Progress, not perfection, is the goal.
If you’re struggling with where to start, consider this your gentle nudge forward. Pick one practice from this blog and try it today. Then tomorrow, and the day after that. With time, these small acts of love will add up. And when they do, you’ll look back and realize you’ve built a life that feels lighter, brighter, and more you.
Because at the end of the day, you are the only you there will ever be. And if that’s not reason enough to love yourself, I don’t know what is.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Best Self
Feeling inspired to start your self-love journey? Why not make 2025 the year you truly step into your power? I’ve created a free Word of the Year Workbook to help you find your guiding word—your anchor for the year ahead. Think of it as a personal mantra that keeps you focused, motivated, and aligned with the life you want to create.
This workbook is simple, fun, and designed to help you reflect on what matters most to you. By the end, you’ll have a word that feels like it was made just for you—a compass to guide you through 2025, one intentional choice at a time.
Don’t wait—grab your Word of the Year Workbook now and start creating a year that feels more you. You deserve it! 💕
Can Mindfulness Transform Your Holiday Stress into Joy?
Have you ever felt the pressure of juggling work, family, and festive cheer during the holiday season? For single working moms, this time of year can feel like an impossible balancing act. I know this firsthand because I've been there too. Managing a career while raising active kids who are involved in sports and other extracurricular activities is no easy task. Add the holidays into the mix, and stress levels can skyrocket.
The holidays are meant to be joyful and filled with warmth, yet it's all too easy to get swept up in the hustle and lose sight of what truly matters. This time of year often involves shuttling kids between different households, a task that demands logistics worthy of a general. But in the middle of all the chaos, I want to invite you to pause, breathe, and immerse yourself in mindfulness.
The Transformative Power of Mindfulness
Mindfulness—a practice rooted in being fully present and aware in the moment—can be your anchor in the swirling sea of holiday madness. It's not about achieving a state of perfect calm but finding moments of peace amid the noise. As a working mom, you may believe that carving out time for mindfulness is impossible. But what if I told you that it only takes five minutes a day?
Imagine this: You’re on your way to work, and instead of tuning into the chatter of your to-do list or worries, you focus on your breath. Inhale deeply, noticing the air filling your lungs, and exhale slowly, releasing tension. Or find solace in the bathroom for a few extra minutes, allowing yourself the luxury of silence and reflection. These small pockets of mindfulness can make a significant difference.
Real-World Evidence of Mindfulness Benefits
The benefits of mindfulness are backed by research. Studies have found that mindfulness practices significantly reduce stress and anxiety, improving emotional well-being. It empowers you to respond to holiday challenges with a calm mind rather than reacting impulsively.
Overcoming the Challenges of Busy Schedules
I understand the challenges you face; I remember sneaking in moments of mindfulness while waiting for my kids at practice or before bed. I encourage you to look for these moments throughout your day. They're there, waiting to be claimed. You might even find that these brief reprieves enhance your ability to juggle responsibilities, bringing clarity and focus when you need it most.
A Community of Support
You don’t have to do this alone. I’ve created a free group dedicated to supporting and encouraging each other as we explore mindfulness and self-care. It’s a space to share triumphs and struggles, to learn from one another, and to grow together as we strive to transform holiday stress into joy.
I invite you to join our community. Let's walk this path of mindfulness together, empowering ourselves to find peace and happiness even during the busiest times. Together, we can redefine the holiday season, turning it into a celebration of presence, gratitude, and love.
Call to Action
Ready to take the first step? Join my free group and connect with like-minded moms who understand the unique challenges you face. Let's inspire and support each other on this mindfulness journey. Click here to join now and unlock the door to a more joyful holiday experience.
Remember, amidst the holiday hustle, you deserve moments of peace and mindfulness. Your well-being is a gift worth giving not only to yourself but also to those you love.
Building Healthy Habits: Encouraging Kids to Make Nutritious Choices Over the Holidays
Have you ever wondered why some children are more open to trying new foods than others? Or maybe you're curious about how to turn a holiday feast into an opportunity for your kids to make healthier choices. Let's look at how we can encourage our children to build lifelong healthy eating habits, even during the indulgent holiday season.
As a parent who has somehow managed to raise three children into their twenties without a single super picky eater, I often reflect on the small but meaningful choices I made along the way. While my kids, like any, had their own preferences, we avoided the battles over food likes and dislikes by fostering an environment where trying new things was the norm rather than the exception.
Start with Positivity and Expectation
One of the keys to success is setting a positive example and expectation. When I cooked meals, I never questioned whether they would like what I fixed. I simply made a meal expecting them to enjoy it because I did. More often than not, they did too. This approach not only broadens their palate but also builds a natural curiosity about food.
Avoid the "Clean Plate" Mentality
Many people grow up in households where "cleaning your plate" is a rule. However, shifting this mindset can have profound impacts. In my home, if my kids were hungry, they ate if they weren't, they didn't. They only ate until they were no longer hungry, helping them avoid associating fullness with discomfort. This approach instilled in them the ability to listen to their bodies, an invaluable skill for making healthy eating choices.
Make Food Fun and Interactive
Why does food have to be serious? Holidays are the perfect time to make food fun. In our house, we played with our food—not in the messy sense, but in creative exploration. Whether it was picking new fruits and veggies, experimenting with cooking methods, or creating fun food faces on their plates, each meal was an adventure. Family time around the table became an opportunity for bonding, making food not just taste better but feel better too.
Engage Them in the Kitchen
Empower your kids by involving them in meal prep. We had DIY pizza nights, build-your-own salad bars, and quesadilla-making events. Giving them a voice in what went on their plates—within healthy guidelines—fostered independence and creativity.
Addressing Holiday Challenges
During the holiday season, temptations abound. But these are also moments ripe for teaching. Turn dessert into a learning experience by discussing how treats fit into a balanced diet. Encourage them to try everything in small amounts to appreciate variety without overindulging.
Conclusion: The Journey Towards Wellness
Building healthy habits doesn’t happen overnight, and it's okay to stumble along the way. The goal isn't perfection but progress. By making small, consistent efforts, we can guide our children towards healthier lifestyles.
If you're looking for more ways to engage your kids in healthy living, check out my Wellness Fusion program. There's a special bonus section just for the kids, filled with fun activities and recipes that bring the whole family together.
Remember, the holidays are about joy, connection, and gratitude—and there's no better way to celebrate than by nurturing our children's health and happiness. Join me in making this holiday season a stepping stone to lifelong wellness. 🌟
Have you ever had a song come on at just the right time—like it was meant for you in that exact moment? One of those songs that feels like it’s speaking straight to your heart, reminding you of who you are when you’ve forgotten?
That happened to me recently. I was sipping my morning coffee when Lauren Daigle’s You Say started playing. Even after almost eight years of being out of one of my most toxic relationships, I’m still on this healing journey. And let me tell you… I didn’t realize how much I needed those words until they hit me.
Why Music Hits Different
Music isn’t just sound—it’s emotion. It’s like someone else puts words to the feelings we’ve buried or struggled to name. Sometimes, a song can reach places no therapy session or pep talk can touch.
You Say is one of those songs. It’s been an anchor for me more times than I can count. When doubt creeps in, when the old lies replay in my mind, those lyrics remind me: I am worthy. I am loved. I am not alone.
Healing in the Lyrics
The tug-of-war between doubt and self-belief is real. Trauma survivors know it too well. That inner voice that says, you’re not enough—music has a way of drowning it out with truth.
For me, faith takes those lyrics even deeper. It’s not just a catchy chorus; it’s a reminder of what God says about me versus what my past tried to make me believe. That’s powerful.
Music + Faith = Healing
Here’s what I’ve found: music by itself is healing, but when I combine it with faith, it feels unshakable. Faith gives me purpose. Music gives me comfort. Together, they create this space where I can breathe again, where healing feels possible, even on the tough days.
Because let’s be honest—healing isn’t a straight line. Words spoken years ago can still echo. But little by little, faith and music help me replace those echoes with something better.
Let’s Walk This Road Together
If you’re walking through your own healing season, I want you to know something—you’re not alone. Truly.
That’s why I created a free community for women like us. It’s a place to share stories, favorite songs, encouragement, and those reminders we all need when life feels heavy.
We don’t have to do this alone. Together, we can turn pain into power, remind each other of our worth, and cheer each other on as we rise.
💛 If this resonates, come join us. Your voice matters here. Your story matters here. You matter here.
xo Angela
Have you ever wondered how to find yourself again after enduring the storm of domestic violence? How to rebuild your life when every piece seems broken, and your self-worth is hidden beneath layers of trauma? I’ve walked that path, and I’m here to tell you—it’s not only possible but profoundly rewarding.
The Journey Begins with You
For many survivors, the psychological and emotional trauma of domestic violence can seem insurmountable. But remember, healing begins with self-care—a critical yet often overlooked step in the recovery process. When I embraced self-care, I started to reclaim the parts of myself I thought were lost forever. I realized that to be the person my children needed, I first had to be there for myself.
Creating a Nurturing Environment
One of the first steps in my healing process was creating a space that felt safe and comforting. This may sound simple, but establishing a nurturing environment is foundational. Surround yourself with objects and reminders of peace and strength. It can be as small as a cozy reading nook or as significant as a complete home makeover. The key is finding a space where you can breathe, reflect, and grow.
Setting Healthy Boundaries
Setting boundaries was another significant milestone on my self-care journey. Post-survival, it's crucial to define what you will and won’t accept in your life. Boundaries are not walls; they’re frameworks that protect our mental and emotional well-being. These lines help you establish healthy relationships, free from the fear of judgment or manipulation.
Engaging in Activities that Foster Self-Compassion
Engaging in self-compassionate activities was a game-changer for me. Whether it was devouring personal development books, experimenting with new workouts, or exploring the profound effects of nutrition on my mood and energy, each activity became a building block in my reconstruction. Exercise, in particular, released those feel-good endorphins, helping me reconnect with my physical self and rebuild confidence, one workout at a time.
Navigating Industry Challenges with Unique Solutions
Overcoming Trauma
The trauma associated with domestic violence can linger long after the situation ends. Acknowledging this is the first step toward healing. Therapy, support groups, and mindfulness practices like meditation can provide powerful pathways to processing and overcoming trauma.
Rebuilding Self-Esteem
Rebuilding self-esteem is another challenge many of us face. Remember, your worth is innate and unchanging, even if it feels buried right now. Celebrate small victories, practice positive affirmations, and remind yourself daily that you are deserving of love and respect—especially from yourself.
Combatting Stigma
Addressing stigma is another hurdle. Society may harbor misconceptions about survivors, but your truth is yours alone. Surround yourself with individuals and communities that uplift and empower. Share your story when you’re ready; it can be a beacon of hope for others and a testament to your strength.
Balancing Self-Care with Daily Responsibilities
Balancing self-care with everyday life isn’t easy, but it’s essential. It’s okay to prioritize your needs; doing so doesn't mean you're neglecting your responsibilities. Instead, it equips you with the resilience to handle them better.
An Invitation to Share and Empower
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that our stories hold immense power. They can inspire, heal, and connect us to a broader community of strength and resilience. I invite you to share your story or advice with someone in need. By doing so, you’re lighting the way for another survivor who may still be finding their path.
Remember, rebuilding your life with love and compassion isn’t a destination. It’s a beautiful, ongoing journey of self-discovery and empowerment. You’ve already taken the most challenging step by surviving. Now, it’s time to thrive.
Join Our Free Online Group
I warmly invite you to join our free online group, a safe haven specifically designed for women in their 40s and beyond who are ready to heal from past traumas and embark on a journey of empowerment and self-discovery. In our sanctuary, you'll discover a nurturing community focused on helping you build confidence and embrace a holistic approach to health and personal growth. We provide the tools and guidance to overcome fears, realize your self-worth, and foster healing and transformation. Connect with like-minded women who understand your experiences, and take the first step towards a vibrant and fulfilling life. Together, let's explore the powerful potential within you and support each other in the journey of transformation.
