I Am.

literally

– the choices you make every day – choices that reflect your values – telling yourself the truth even when it’s uncomfortable – holding firm to what you will and won’t allow – trusting your first instinct – refusing to abandon your own needs – choosing peace over chaos – picking evolution instead of repeating what feels familiar – keeping promises you make to yourself – choosing long-term clarity over short-term comfort – protecting your mental and emotional energy – not performing for approval – walking away when something feels off, even if you can’t explain why – making decisions from your future self, not your fears – surrounding yourself with people who bring out your best – giving yourself permission to outgrow what no longer fits

Naomi Shihab Nye, “Sometimes I Pretend.” A Maze Me: Poems for Girls