Learning to love myself

I was almost 40 before I started loving myself. Growing up I would have people telling me that I was pretty but I never believed them. I never felt it. My mind would say what are they seeing? I'm fat, I have a big nose, my lips, eyes, breast are huge! I would hide myself I tried to make myself small but people always noticed me. Being married to a narcissist didn't help my self esteem at all either. 🙃 Then one day it just clicked. I looked in the mirror and said I am beautiful, I love my eyes, nose, lips, breast and weight regardless if anyone else felt the same. My 10 year old grandson recently told me as I was getting dressed "Nana you are so pretty." I looked at him and smiled because I believed him. 🙂 It now saddens me when someone who is actually beautiful doesn't see it for themselves. I was there. Somedays I still struggle but for the most part I am loving me. I put on that top, lipstick and whatever else I want because I am loving myself now!!!

NewRaven · 51-55, F

I’ve been right there with you, including the narcissist ex husband, although I was closer to 45 before I saw it and things clicked. Changing the self talk is super difficult, but has huge payoffs. A lot of help from friends on EP, a lot of internal work, and hearing the lyrics of Pink’s song Perfect all helped to improve that. But you’re right, there are still days. Holler if you ever need to talk.

PEACH4LIFE · 46-50, F

@NewRaven Awwww thanks and I'm sending you big hugs! We got this! And if you ever want to talk I'm here for you. 🤗🤗