Who is your best friend?
Is it your partner, parent, sibling, long-time friend?
My best friend is myself!
Does that sound selfish and ridiculous?
I constantly write and teach on the importance of having strong relationships with others in order to have a happier and more fulfilled life.
Today I want to share that the most important relationship that we have is the relationship we have with ourselves.
“In order to move independently through the world, we all need to learn to treat ourselves with the kindness, encouragement, and candor that we would offer a good friend. It takes time alone and consistent practice to develop the habit of being compassionate toward oneself.” – Vivek H. Murthy, Together.
Even though it was years ago, I clearly remember the feelings of loneliness and self-judgment after my cancer treatment. I felt that I should be positive, grateful and productive when in reality I felt lonely and tired.
Many of my clients have been expressing similar feelings during the pandemic.
Let’s remember:
“If I am not for myself, who will be for me? But if I am only for myself, what am I?If not now, when?” – Hillel
March 2021 marks a full year since the start of the pandemic.
It has been a year of much uncertainty and lack of connection with others. Over the past year I have once again learned that:
- Change and uncertainty are a constant part of our lives.
- Days can seem very long while at the same time weeks and months feel like they pass very quickly.
- I had taken many things in my life for granted that now feel very special. Things like having dinner at a restaurant, having friends over to my house or travelling to see my parents. Small things have become more meaningful.
- I am honouring my uniqueness and I am being authentic by doing things that make me happy and replenish me.
- Most crises have a silver lining.
- Some things stay the same. My values of family, friendships and contributing to society have not changed.
What have you learned during the pandemic?
Are you being your own best friend?
I invite you to stop for a few minutes to answer these important questions.
Life is a fantastic journey with many hurdles along the way. We will have days where positivity is our friend and others when we will have doubts and fears. Remember to treat yourself with the same kindness and courage you would offer your best friend.
If you are ready to invest in your relationships, both with yourself and with others, let’s explore the steps you need to take together.