We often think of forgiveness as something we extend to other people, but how often do we forgive ourselves? How often do we extend ourselves the grace we so generously extend to others? Not sure about you, but forgiving and extending myself some grace is something I constantly work on.
At the top of 2017, I made a few declarations. I declared that I would (1) lose a certain amount of weight, (2) gain a certain amount of followers, (3) spend time nurturing old friendships, and possibly, foster new ones, and (4) save a certain amount of money. I am pleased to have made improvements in some areas, but not all. The “not all” part really irritates me. I have been tirelessly working to achieve certain goals, and to know that I have fallen short in some areas does not sit well with me.
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Thankfully, my attitude has changed. Granted I have not met certain goals, but I have decided to extend myself some grace. I have also forgiven myself for making a few missteps along the way. Not losing those pounds, saving that amount of money, or spending time with a few friends is not the end of the world. While my intentions were good, and my heart was in the right place, things happen. Life happens, and that is OK. Thankfully, God has granted me a 2nd (3rd and 4th) chance to “get it right”. Now, it is up to me to get back on track.
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Through personal Bible study, and talking to my husband (and certain family members), I have realized that being so hard on myself is not healthy. Feeling guilty or disappointed is natural, but you should not let those feelings fester. Settling into unhappiness and disappointment can quickly lead to depression. That is a road no one wants to go down. Instead, be patient with yourself, forgive yourself, and extend yourself a little grace. Afteall, if God can forgive you, and if He can constantly extend grace and mercy towards you, daily, why can’t you do the same for yourself?
So tell me, have you been too hard on yourself lately? What do you need to forgive yourself for? Let me know!
As always, thanks for reading and commenting. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!
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Lynn says
Patience is definitely key… It’s refreshing to read this as we can sometimes be our own worse critic and be so hard on self. Its important to look at the small things and to give ourselves credit for taking the first steps and if and when we falloff just have the courage to start again!
Nice dress and you always seem to have the most adorable flats!
Xoxo
Lynn
Whitney says
So true, Lynn. I can be so hard on myself sometimes, but I’m really learning to allow myself some grace. Also, I’m realizing how to respect and appreciate the growth process. Thanks s much for reading and commenting!
P.S. Thanks for the compliment…xo!
March and May says
This is so well written and so true. We do forget to forgive ourselves. We just need to be strong, forgive ourselves and to try again.
March and May
Whitney says
Thank you so much! I really appreciate your comment. And yes, forgiving ourselves is something I think we can all work on.
Rachel says
Such an interesting post! Love your look!
http://chicglamstyle.com
Whitney says
Thanks, Rachel!
Tomi C says
Forgiving oneself is crucial to moving on. Excellent, reflective post. #BLMGirl
Whitney says
So true! Thanks for reading and commenting!