Finding a Better Mirror

It wasn't that long ago that I was in high school...


High school for me was a period of excellence - in academics, in athletics, in life.  I accomplished so many things, but looking back, I didn't manage to do one of the biggest tasks set before me:  I didn't see the value of who I was...I only saw the value of what I did.  (Disclaimer:  A lot of what I did reflected who I wanted to be or who I am now, but I did not necessarily pursue those actions for the value of learning about myself.)  I think I was looking for recognition or satisfaction in making someone else happy, but I'm not sure.  I definitely wasn't that self-aware back then.


I often wish that someone had told me back then what I know now.  Not that I can confirm I would have paid attention to it, but how awesome would it be for my life to have radically changed at the age of 15 versus the age of 31...


So what do I know now?  (Well, loads of random facts to start...)  


The important topic/life lesson I want to share/discuss in this blog is that it's ok to take care of yourself.  It's not selfish.  It doesn't mean you don't care about other people - in fact, I would argue that you are better able to care about others if you are healthy yourself.  Taking care of yourself can change how you view the world, how you approach the world, and how you impact the world.


So here comes the blog...A Better Mirror.  Why do we need a better mirror?  Perhaps better isn't the "right" word.  Perhaps accurate is a better fit, or true.  As we journey, you can fill in that blank, but regardless, there needs to be a change in how young women view themselves.  The value lies in who we (you!) are, not in what we (you!) do.  The mirror comes in when it is a true reflection of your healthy self - mind, body, and soul.  All work together to make you an amazing being ready to make an impact.


It took me a long time to find the right mirror.  Ironically, I was finally able to look in a mirror and not want to avoid what I saw.  But now I can see myself for who I truly am, and I am learning to love the person looking back.