Self-respect as a basic need

There are certain things we have mistaken as a luxury for too long that are actually foundational to our success as human beings.

One of these things is Self-respect. We think, later. Later, I will act on the desires of my heart. Later, I will stop mistreating my body and my soul. Later, I will trust myself and value myself enough to give my true yes and my genuine no. Later, I will be generous with the people around me. Later, I will send my life around what makes me feel whole.

The problem is that later is too late. Self-respect is the only path if we want to live lives of love and make a difference for one another and our planet. Only when we are willing to truly listen to our wisdom can our world become wise. A world full of respect will not be created through disrespecting ourselves. And we can’t wait for everyone else to do it. It has to start with each of us.

What if the goal was the way?