Do you give yourself
enough?

Why is it you do not give yourself the same tender loving care you crave from others?  Usually, the contributing factor is that you were programmed by someone else into thinking that you were unworthy and unlovable.  Or, perhaps you were told you were too 'self-centered' if you thought that you were 'special' and had a healthy self-esteem.  This is not to imply that you should disregard the uniqueness and value of others.  However, most of the time those people who are not accepting and loving of 'self' tend to overly indulge loved ones in hopes of gaining their love and acceptance.  They attract "conditional love."

Take a moment and answer the following questions truthfully:

 ~ Are you extremely critical of yourself?
 ~ Do you always assume the blame if something goes awry in your relationships?
 ~ Do you make unrealistic expectations of yourself?
 ~ Are you oblivious to your wonderful unique qualities and talents?   
 ~ Do you understand that perfection is something to aspire to     but rarely attained by anyone?  While the soul is 'perfection' the human condition is an ongoing process of becoming.
 ~ Do you forgive yourself and your mistakes?
 ~ How angry are you?

These are just a few of many possible problematic behavior attitudes you may be laying on yourself because of negative programming.  They are blockages and should be reflected upon.  Numerous articles, books, etc. have been published to help people learn awareness and understanding of what it is to be human and how to keep positive in their challenging sojourn on earth.

Death is not
the greatest loss in life.
The greatest lost is what dies inside us
while we are alive.
Norman Cousins

There is a self-selection process that takes place with personal growth books; people who are not ready for them do not read them.  Their intention not to grow is stronger than their intention is to grow . . .

Try this:  Stand in front of a mirror and really look into your eyes.  Then say out loud, over and over - "I deserve to be loved and I love myself."  "I have compassion and respect for me."  "I demand that others reciprocate the love and appreciation I give to them."

Then create your own affirmations.   Whatever it is that your heart is yearning for, know that you are worthy and capable of obtaining it.  Recognize too, how you sabotage your intentions with the many negative thoughts, feelings, and attitudes that begin to surface.  You may feel awkward, scared, foolish, embarrassed, angry, or depressed.  However, you must endeavor to avoid these thoughts and feelings.

You must persevere.  Behind all the obstacles, fears and frustration - your natural urge to live, love and be loved will emerge.  The love you feel for yourself and your life will triumph.  Connect with it!

How to give yourself some T.L.C. :

 Indulge yourself with something you desire - a gift, something to eat, a
vacation - whatever.  Let the universe know that you are aware and appreciative of
 
YOU!