Don't need a crown to be a queen

You’re allowed to mess up sometimes. Everyone messes up. It’s okay to get into an argument or be critiqued. I dwell on criticism. Convince myself I’m worthless and disappointing, when in reality, we’re not defined by the words that chip away at our self worth. You aren’t loved because your role in their life is to make them happy. You are loved for you. Flaws and everything else in between.

Remind yourself, the fights and disagreements don’t define the relationship. They don’t define your self worth. Those who love you are allowed to express frustration. Every relationship comes with disagreement.

It’s how we respond that can either facilitate growth and healthy communication, or create inner turmoil that leads to pushing those who love us further and further away.

Stable relationships aren’t labeled as stable because they’re perfect, their stability is defined by our ability to recognize disagreements as opportunities that can lead us towards deeper intimacy. Intimacy not only in a relationship, but within ourselves as well.

Talk it out. Explain how you feel. Recognize that you are not defined by criticism. Remind yourself of the times you’ve been frustrated or annoyed by a loved one. Did it make you reevaluate the value they add to your life?

Getting a dog for the first time ever!!! - Guest Submission