I have autonomy. My thoughts, actions, and choices are my own, independent of anyone else. I can think for myself. I can make decisions for myself. I don't need permission. I don't have to make every decision or even thought based on how I am worried it will affect everyone else. I can actually put myself first, in a very healthy, proactive way that is very fulfilling, and the pay-off is that everyone around me benefits from a healthier, more confident, more content me.

Just those kinds of thoughts were completely foreign to me and filled me with anxiety, shame, guilt my whole life. I thought that was selfish and self-centered. I've learned it really is just good self-care, and when I take care of me, the other relationships and issues in my life fall into place much more naturally and effectively.