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Dear Evolving Woman,

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If you are learning to choose yourself, I want you to know something first.

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I know this has not been easy for you.

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For so long, you have been the one who showed up, who gave, who put others first without even thinking twice about it.

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You learned how to be there for everyone else, how to keep the peace, how to make things work even when it cost you your own energy, your own time, and sometimes even your own sense of self.

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So choosing yourself now can feel unfamiliar.

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It can feel uncomfortable.

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It can even feel wrong at times.

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You might question yourself.

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You might wonder if you are being selfish.

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You might feel guilt creeping in when you say no, or when you take a step back, or when you finally ask yourself what you need instead of what everyone else needs from you.

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But choosing yourself is not selfish.

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It is honest.

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If you are learning to choose yourself, I know this has not been easy.

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You are not turning your back on others.

 

You are turning toward yourself.

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And that matters.

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You can still be caring, loving, and kind while also protecting your time, your energy, and your peace.

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You are allowed to rest.

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You are allowed to say no.

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You are allowed to take up space in your own life.

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Be patient with yourself as you learn this.

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Every small step you take toward honoring yourself matters more than you think.

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You are not losing who you are.

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You are finally becoming a woman who includes herself in the care she so freely gives to others.

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And even in the smallest moments, you are still evolving, growing into a woman who is learning to honor herself more with each passing day.

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Love,

 

Maya Ellis
Evolving Womanhood