The Power of Responsibility
Close your eyes for a minute and think of a happy memory. Recall the moments and just feel happy. How we feel is an emotional response to that moment.
You decide how you want to feel.
So it’s not the moment that defines us, but our reactions and choices that define who we are. It’s in our choices that resides our biggest potential, which is responsibility.
Let me tell you my story:
My first memory of feeling inadequate was the age of 4. I thought I was a cute, kind little girl, but the messages that I heard from others made me feel like there was something wrong with me.
Starting with my Nana, who was completely convinced I was going to be fat, by the way I ate my food. I remember discussions she and my mother would have about my eating issues and how I was eating too much or too fast. In comes FLAWED.
When I was a kid in school, I never felt as good as all of my friends. I had to work hard at getting good grades, I had to work hard at being good at sports, and I had to work hard at feeling like I fit in. I decided that I was a MISFIT and UNLOVEABLE. I was a victim and I began to settle for less of what I truly wanted. Any attention, whether good or bad, I accepted. I just wanted to feel like I was loveable that I was good enough.
I carried this through adulthood, struggling with an eating disorder, attracting bad relationships, creating toxic environments and looking for validation outside of myself. Then one day I found myself hanging from a ledge and I thought how the hell did I get here?
Then I had a flash, a lightning bolt moment. I had a realization that hit me so hard!
I have to take responsibility for my life! I have created victimhood! When I woke up and realized that I had the power, a veil began to lift.
Wow, I can now create what I want. I can create my potential, I can create a world of happiness and connection and engagement. I can let go of flawed, not good enough and shame. I can use my story to inspire others and work with people who want to live a better life. I have to choose to no longer be the victim. I can ask for forgiveness.I can stop shaming myself.
In that moment, my world transformed.
Think about any anger or resentment for things that you feel in those moments. The times you hurt, fail or have made bad decisions.
How many times have you blamed your parents, or said I can’t or I am alone?
You don’t have to be that person, you can let go of negative self-talk and the triggers.
YOU are the only thing holding you back. YOU are the only one who can empower you. If you don’t take responsibility your power becomes silent. You can do anything. Run the ½ marathon, play an instrument, forgive someone, stop enabling, stop using food as an excuse, let go of toxic people.
Surround yourself with love and joy. Take the time to look at how you make your choices and the feelings you create in your moments.
