I’ve debated sharing my one word for 2018 with others due to the possible reactions I might receive. After pondering  my one word for the last couple of weeks, I decided that sharing my one word was the first step to my journey.

My one word is self-love.

I’m not happy with me.

Of course, I’m not about to jump off the nearest bridge or anything, but my joy in all areas has been sneaking away from me for years.

I want comfort.

I want peace.

I want to experience unconditional love.

I realize these emotions are probably what we all strive for in life, but so many people do not find these satisfactions during their life here on this side of Heaven.

As a Christian, I’m well aware JOY comes from the Lord. 

However, I need to love myself  as much as the Lord adores me. 

After all, He created me in His image according to Jeremiah. 

Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations. 

I don’t have a lot of self-love.

I know I can’t live the life of joy without learning to love myself first.

When I practice self-love, I will continue to name and claim all of who I am — even the ugly parts. It’s about developing my capacity to be aware, authentic and intentional in every aspect of my life. In doing so I will build greater self compassion and also enhance my ability to offer love and empathy to others.

It’s not about me thinking I’m more worthy than anyone else in my life, but it’s about learning to love and accept me for who I am. 

I want to live for Christ, but I’m lacking because I don’t love me.

I need to love myself in order to be the woman God created me to be.

I want to be a caring mother, a successful teacher, a worthy daughter, and a lovely friend.

So in all essence, it’s not really about me, but serving the Lord the way He desires. 

So for the next year, I will be working my one word, self-love. I bought myself a little bracelet with my one word to wear daily.

I will be sharing my self-love journey over the course of this year. It’s going to be a huge challenge to love myself, but I can do it through Christ.

Anyone else want to tackle the self-love challenge this year with me? 

What is your one word challenge this year?