Embracing Your Worth: A Personal Invitation

Hey there,

Can we chat about something important? It's about you—yes, you, the incredible woman reading this right now. You may not hear it often, but I want to take a moment to remind you: you are valuable beyond measure.

Our society often tries to define our worth by superficial standards, it's easy to forget just how truly remarkable we are. But here's the good news: our value isn't determined by anyone else past or present. (and honestly, thank God!)

It's not about how we look, what we achieve, or where we come from. Our worth is intrinsic; it's woven into the very fabric of our being. 

I know it's not always easy to see that. Trust me, I've been there and in many ways, still am. We're bombarded with messages telling us we're not enough—smart enough, pretty enough, successful enough. It's exhausting, isn't it?

I often think the 'messages' that scream the loudest are the ones inside our own heads. We judge ourselves so harshly. But what if we decided to consciously take teeny tiny steps towards rejecting those messages?

Can we intentionally choose to see ourselves through a different lens?

Absolutely.

It starts with a shift in perspective. Instead of focusing on our flaws, let's celebrate our strengths. Instead of seeking validation from others, let's look within for the recognition we crave.

We have the power to rewrite the narrative, to define our own worth on our own terms. And this isn't a one time thing; it's a daily (hourly?) conscious choice to speak different to and about ourselves.

So, here's my invitation to you: embrace your worth. Own it. Celebrate it.

And while you're at it, lift up the women around you too. Because when we support each other, incredible things happen.

In all honesty the thought of trying to connect with an already-established group... sometimes women scare me.

My default factory setting is to assume I have nothing of value to give. Worse? If they seem to like me, they're probably just pretending and are annoyed by my presence. I should've stayed in the corner. Better yet? I should've stayed at home with my dog.

Not proud of it, but it's the truth. This has held me back time and time again from finding trusted friends or connected with other business women. I mean, this group of intelligent, charismatic, successful women can not possibly be my people, right?

I've been proven wrong enough times to know the value in a supportive group of trusted women. But it requires courage to test that truth, doesn't it?

That's one reason I continue to love the little online community I have in the Hope Squad. I love seeing women feel safe enough to say 'Hey, I can't do this on my own. Pray for me.' and seeing others wrap their arms around each other. A trusted connection is our goal, whether it be in person or online. 

Here are 5 practical tips to not only embrace your personal value but also uplift the women around you:

1. Practice Self-Compassion. Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, especially during times of self-doubt. Remember, you're doing the best you can, and that's more than enough. Give yourself grace while also embracing those 'growth nudges' that get you out of your comfort zone. 

2. Celebrate Each Other's Successes. When a fellow woman achieves something remarkable, celebrate her victories as if they were your own. Let's cultivate a culture of celebration and support.

3. Listen Without Judgment. Create a safe space for women to share their experiences and struggles without fear of judgment. Sometimes, all someone needs is a listening ear and a compassionate heart.

4. Offer Genuine Encouragement. Take the time to uplift and encourage the women in your life. A simple compliment or word of encouragement can make a world of difference.

5. Lead by Example. Be unapologetically yourself and lead by example. Show other women that it's okay to embrace their authenticity and shine brightly in a world that often tries to dim their light.

You are capable of more than you know, my friend. Your worth is undeniable, and the world is waiting for you to show it. So go ahead, step into your power, and shine brightly as the remarkable woman you are.

With Love and Solidarity,

Danielle
Ps. I've started reading a book called 'Worthy: How to Believe You Are and Transform Your Life' that was released in February. You may have heard of the author Jamie Kern Lima - 'She’s been a Denny’s waitress, a struggling entrepreneur, lived a life-long journey of rejections, and has battled her way through years of self-doubt, body-doubt and God-doubt. She was given away at birth and adopted and has been on a journey of learning to believe she’s here with purpose, on purpose and for a purpose and is worthy, lovable and enough.'

I truly love her story and her vulnerability. You may enjoy it too!