#trueart

You don't always have to smile or laugh politely to make others feel comfortable. Know your natural (frowny) resting face is enough - it is glorious; magnificent.

You don't always have to explain yourself when/after saying "no" to something.

You don't always have to be the one to speak to fill awkward silences or gaps in a conversation. Listen to the spaces in between the words. This is where you will find the Truth. Let the conversation unfold as it does. Observe.

You don't have to hug or kiss anyone if you just don't feel like it (that includes sexual activities as well). Your body is your body is your body. Also, you are so much more than just a body...remember that. More than a mind. You are the entire universe in one soul. Know this. Embrace this. Love and honour your mind-body-spirit(soul).

If you want/need something, ask for it, politely, and remember not everyone deserves an explanation as to why you want/need that thing. Sometimes, however (depending on who you are asking), it helps to put things into perspective.

You don't have to apologize for not answering someone's text/call etc. immediately, even if it is usually normal for you to answer quickly. If you feel that you don't want to answer, maybe you shouldn't. Be patient with yourself. Ask yourself if that person may not deserve an answer. You are the only one that needs to understand why. If someone questions your behaviour/answer/silence and you feel that you would like to explain yourself, be polite and brief in your explanation. It is not your job to please everyone at all times.

Very few people in this world can actually hear your thoughts, and even if they could, they likely wouldn't care. Most people are only very interested in themselves, and sometimes, that's a good thing.

Learned resilience is learned and learned helplessness is learned, which means both can be unlearned. Do with that what you will.

Feelings/emotions pass. Observe them and let them go. Neither positive nor negative ones serve as anything more than markers/signposts of temporary states of physiological/emotional/mental imbalance/balance. Do keep inventory of where you like/don't like to be and adjust your thoughts and actions, accordingly (easier said than done, I know, but you got this).

If you are having a particularly emotionally challenging/charged day, stop what you are doing, and do some breath work while expressing gratitude for whatever arises in that moment, however big or small.

You do not have to apologize for/explain anyone you choose to befriend or date; all the while, remember that some choices are not aligned with your highest potential and may cause you to deviate from your chosen path. Accept the consequences of every choice you make. Learn from your choices.

Cultivate healthy assertiveness. Meditate on this. It will make all of the above possible to achieve.

Ask yourself: Do you know who you are and why you are doing the work you do? Most people haven't figured it out, but this is the driving force behind exuberant, consistent confidence and grace.

Remember: True art (and relentless creativity) arises out of true vulnerability, humility, courage, fearlessness, and unadulterated love. Anything else is an imitation.