UPDATE: AUDIO FOR THIS ENTRY IS NOW AVAILABLE ABOVE! PODCAST COMING SOON!
I was probably supposed to be working when I took this, hence the headphones.
Ever wake up wanting to talk to someone and have them tell you everything is going to be alright? If words of affirmation are your love language, you may know exactly what I'm talking about.
Since losing a friend earlier this year, I've been finding a lot of comfort thinking about what she might say if she were still with us. She was so supportive of everyone in our friend circle, and she could be counted on to hype anyone up if they needed it. I picture her enthusiastic smile and how she would probably say something like, "Emily, stop spending so much time being sad and go live your life happily! Enjoy your kids, make more podcasts, and write another book already!"
She was the kind of person to love and support you openly and give you a little push, if necessary. If you have a friend like that, I hope you take the time to let them know how much you appreciate them.
This morning I took some time when I was done with my morning journaling to think of her and what she would say to me if we were having lunch and I was telling her about all the things currently weighing on me.
I got very quiet and did some intentional breathing before actually thinking about what it was I needed to hear in that moment from her, or really any friend or loved one.
Here’s what came to me:
Don't worry, your "lazy yoga" you've been doing lately has counted. You're intentionally moving every day.
You haven't let as many people down as you think.
You are allowed to ask for help and ask for your needs to be met.
You're growing constantly and changes are coming fast. You're dealing with it as best you can.
I'm so excited you're exercising your voice on the mic and sharing your writing with the world again!
Permanence is a luxury — change is inevitable. All things must pass. Keep a soft focus.
You have knowledge, creativity, tools, and support to do a lot of great things. Keep going.
These were things I found myself having trouble remembering or believing lately. I've tended to focus on all the changes going on and so much of what’s not working that I’ve been forgetting to treat myself with the grace and kindness I believe everyone deserves.
If this is something you find yourself struggling with, I invite you to take some time to think about a friend or family member you care for and admire who you go to for support.
Maybe they’re in your life still or maybe they’re not. What do you need to hear from them right now? What could they say to support you in the moment and help you sit with whatever you’re dealing with?
Sometimes it's easier for me to picture a friend being nice to me than it is to be nice to myself. This helps me a lot and I hope it helps you too.
Sign up for my monthly newsletter for updates and new posts, including tips for independent creative podcasters! And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram to catch up between posts!
Enjoying Emily: Out Loud and want more? You can help by buying me a cup of coffee over at BuyMeACoffee.com/emilyprokop 🙂