“It’s not a woman’s job to get smaller and smaller until she disappears so the world can be more comfortable” – Glennon Doyle

When I first read this quote in Glennon Doyle’s amazing book “Love Warrior”, my heart stopped. I got goosebumps. I had never before read something that I felt so accurately reflected my feelings about myself, life, and our society.

For much of my life, I was consumed with doing the “right” thing. It felt way too overwhelming, scary, and uncomfortable to disagree with someone, disappoint someone, or risk hurting someone’s feelings. So instead I became a chameleon.

My chameleon self wanted so badly to fit in. To not rock the boat. To be the person everyone liked and could count on. And this showed up in all parts of my life. School, work, relationships, and eating.

It felt easier to cut food out altogether so I didn’t risk making the wrong decision. That seemed like a safe bet. One thing I didn’t have to worry about.

I was PHYSICALLY disappearing.

While everyone’s journey to self-love is different, here is what mine required:

✨Tears
✨Laughter
✨Trust
✨Strength
✨Tenderness
✨Dancing
✨Love
✨Compassion
✨Acceptance
✨Boundaries
✨Rest
✨Nature
✨Community
✨Breakups
✨Breakdowns
✨Breakthroughs

And most importantly, brave, bold, badass women to remind me that I’m not alone.

Thank you to ALL of the brave, bold, badass women around the world who are sharing their light daily, saying enough is enough, and inspiring us all to take up more space. To the past generations of brave, bold, badass women who fought tirelessly to get us here. And to the future generations of brave, bold, badass women who will carry us forward. May we cry together, celebrate together, and continue to rise together. #happyinternationalwomensday