Hi Sweethearts!
You know, the only constant thing about life is that it changes. I have been thinking a lot about determination lately, and what enables us to move forward in life when we have no guarantees, no insight as to what might be waiting for us around the next corner. For me it is all about my truth about my self. I view change and growth as a neccessity, as a goal in it self in addition to a way of living my life.
Moving forward usually means letting go of something, daring to be voulnerable, daring to be open. Moving forward can feel anything but safe. Still, I am not afraid to keep moving, to face my fears, to dream bigger. What does my truth about my self have to do with this, you say? My answer is, it has everything to do with it.
I used to own a truth about my self that I was unlovable, that I was ugly in every way, that I did not deserve respect, that the whispers inside me telling tales of happiness and fulfillment were powerless. And they were, until I grabbed hold of my self worth and ran with it. Slowly those whispers became loud screams, forcing me to let them out, to translate those whispers into action. For many years I let my truth about my self hold me back, I played it safe, I didn`t dare live the way my soul longed for, I didn`t dare be me.
I now live with a different truth about my self. When I receive love I accept it, knowing that I am lovable. When I want to wear colour I do, knowing that there is no need for me to hide. When I am treated with less then respect I speak up, because I respect my self. When I feel a fear I face it, knowing that I will be able to work through it. When I need to let go to move on I do, because I know I will survive.
When I observe my self I see that my actions affirm my self, where as before they limited me. Looking forward I have hope that I will keep creating and moving into new and lovely places in my life. I don`t know what my future brings, but I am ready for it. It doesn`t get much bigger than that.
Tell me, what do your actions say about your truth about your self?
The outfit: Maxidress that I reworked, Noa Noa. Khaki coat that I reworked into a cropped jacket, Kapp Ahl. Wegdes that I cut the front out of, Clarks . Earrings that I wear as a neckless, Indiska. Earrings that I wear as earrings, bangle and bag, H&M. Scarf that I want to make into a dress but try not to touch, Zara.
Would you like to contact me? I would love to connect with you!
anikack@gmail.com @AnikaByAnika Facebook
{ 69 comments… read them below or add one }
Wow, I love your jacket and wedges, theyre really cool!
xx
Twitter: AnikaByAnika
April 13, 2011 at 7:42 pm
Thank you darling Joyce! Hugs for you xx
This post was SUBLIME! I want to have your mindset about myself as well. It is true and just and strong.
Thank you for contributing to the POSITIVE vibe on the internet!
Twitter: AnikaByAnika
April 13, 2011 at 7:42 pm
Thank you so much Sara, I really appreciate your kind words. For me creating and living this mindset is about extreme self disiplin. I check my own thoughts and literally discard and replace the ones who are not constructive. It is an ongoing process, but it has gotten a lot easier with practise. Hugs for you xx
Love the message of this post, so inspiring. And I adore you scarf and purse!!!
Bekah recently posted..hump day funk- hope you read that right
Twitter: AnikaByAnika
April 13, 2011 at 7:41 pm
I am glad you took something away from my post darling. I adore you! xx
Twitter: sheblog
April 13, 2011 at 6:06 pm
You are beautiful and confident! I love how you mentioned that if you feel disrespected you have trained yourself to speak up. I think that is so important in any instance where someone is not being kind to another. People need to know how words can make us feel!
Twitter: AnikaByAnika
April 13, 2011 at 7:40 pm
Thank you sweet JenMarie, I feel the same way about you. Thank you so much for your comment! Hugs xx
Twitter: gritandglamour
April 13, 2011 at 6:23 pm
Another poignant and thought-provoking post, Anika. Yes, moving forward without knowing how things will come together is terrifying! But once you’ve made a life-changing decision, it’s amazing how easy it is to do it again after that first time. I’m so glad your truth is positive…we only have one life to live, and it is far too short to spend most of it hating ourselves!
I spent 25-35 being too afraid to take a risk. I’m happy to report that my actions now reflect the fearlessness I feel inside. Boredom and mediocrity are just not options.
GRIT & GLAMOUR recently posted..WVW- The Jolie Foley
Twitter: AnikaByAnika
April 13, 2011 at 7:40 pm
I am happy to report that your fearlessness shows my dear Vahni! It is a fiercesome and beautiful thing to behold. Thank you for your sincerity, I love our conversation that stretches through our posts, comments and tweets. Mwuaaah!
I love this look. Your scarf is beautiful and I love your short khaki coat! Kiah
Twitter: AnikaByAnika
April 13, 2011 at 7:38 pm
Thank you so much Kiah! I am glad you like the look
I love this look! That jacket is so cute!
natasha recently posted..Spring hair trends
Twitter: AnikaByAnika
April 13, 2011 at 7:38 pm
Thank you Natasha, sweetheart! xxx
I Like the Jaket and the Shoes are so sweet! Good Job!!
Twitter: AnikaByAnika
April 13, 2011 at 7:37 pm
Thank you darling! xx
Twitter: enchantedelle
April 13, 2011 at 7:24 pm
We all have reasons to love us- each and every one of us. We all have things to improve on, but just acknowledging so is a step- and sometimes self worth is all we need to work on for everything else to improve on it’s own. Love your way with words- and you truly are an inspiring person. Also I love the way you’ve reworked so many of your items! Very very crafty. How fabulous.
Twitter: AnikaByAnika
April 13, 2011 at 7:37 pm
You are absolutely right my dear, it does start at the core. Thank you very much for your kind words! Hugs coming your way xx
Twitter: enchantedelle
April 13, 2011 at 7:26 pm
gahh sorry for the double post- cant delete and repost in wordpress- my twitter handle totally went through as the wrong name x_X. Sorry about the confusion.
Elle recently posted..Red Lips and Coffee Cups
Twitter: AnikaByAnika
April 13, 2011 at 7:37 pm
Sweetheart, I love hearing from you- twice!
I love this post! it’s so true. Discovering the power you have within yourself is life changing. I love that moment when you realize, I’m Worth it all! Sidenote: I loved that you cropped that jacket your just too awesome!
Kenyetta recently posted..The Natural Dating Game
Twitter: AnikaByAnika
April 13, 2011 at 7:52 pm
I am so glad Kenyetta, sweet friend. That moment is what it is all about, no? Big hugs to you! xx
ps, on a sidenote I love your sidenote LOL <3
Twitter: made2travel
April 13, 2011 at 8:46 pm
Such a beautiful post. So much to admire, thank you for promoting self-worth, positivity and courage.
Oh also wonderful outfit
Jamillah recently posted..Made by Voz-Empowering Women with Design
Anika, as I read this post I realized that self empowerment is the most powerful tool that we have.
I made (always) a conscious effort to tell my daughters how special, strong, smart, beautiful they are and that they must learn to love themselves first before loving anyone else!
Growing up I did not get this kind of support so I make an everyday effort to install a positive self imagine to my girls.
Ofelia recently posted..What I cooked
If you don´t love yourself , how can you love others??? I always told myself.
I know the path is not easy, bu I am very happy and proud to see how you are walking it.
You are an example for many women with hidden wings.
Much love always.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXxx
SACRAMENTO recently posted..Blog 1st Birthday
Twitter: WellAppCatwalk
April 13, 2011 at 10:12 pm
Are you sure you’re not talking about me here? I feel like this story is so familiar to many women, and I feel very lucky that I’ve come to see myself in a better light. And I’m very glad you recognize your worth now, too! It feels amazing, doesn’t it?
Gosh, you are always so inspiring. I think a lot of women have feelings like that and it is so amazing that you help remind us to love ourselves!
I LOVE your words here.
Krystal/Village recently posted..2×2
You are a true blogging hero for me! You always look so confident and happy! And your blog is so amazing! You are beautiful and have stunning clothes!!
Monique
Monique Zuman recently posted..Lets be nude
Twitter: myheartblogged
April 14, 2011 at 2:47 am
When I was younger I thought I was too ugly, fat, and just unworthy to be treated well. I really believe the older I get the more I respect myself, my body, and my worth. I am a lot more confident now. While my worth is not based on what someone else thinks of me, my boyfriend has shown me I was more than deserving of love. He loves me for me.
myheartblogged recently posted..Outfit of the day Stripes on stripes
Uau, I just loved this post. For me, it was inspiring, just what I needed to hear today. If only I could think a bit like you, I would be happier.
Thanks. Love your blog, I’ll keep following!!!
I love this post. I love your attitude and your outlook! It’s very inspiring. Only we can change how we feel about ourselves
I really like the print on that dress, and the cut really goes well with those beautiful wedges!
laura recently posted..The Long and Short of It
Very honest and powerful post. My truth? I never really loved myself, never really considered it an option until I hit my 30s. I don’t remember exactly when or how, but I decided to live in the now, to love myself as I am NOW, not the future or the past me. It was liberating
Beautiful jacket, dress, wedges, all of it. You are so talented!
Adrienne
Adrienne recently posted..Fashion Nugget of the Day- City Chic Tropical Bird Dress
Anika, hva kan jeg si? Den selvinnsikten og sårbarheten du deler med oss lesere på bloggen din er bare helt fantastisk, jeg sitter ofte igjen med en slags aha-opplevelse etter å ha lest disse blogginnleggene dine! Selv var jeg nesten sykelig sjenert som barn og slet veldig med det, helt til jeg fikk noen litt eldre venninner som fikk meg ut av “skallet” slik at jeg kunne begynne å leve og utvikle meg selv, og som du sier – det eneste i livet som er sikkert, er at ting endrer seg hele tiden, og at vi til en viss grad må endre oss, vi også, for personlig vekst. Det kan være smertefullt, ja, men på den andre siden føler man seg vel sjelden så levende som akkurat da! Tusen takk for et tankevekkende og flott blogginnlegg, ønsker deg en kjempefin torsdagskveld! Klem!
MyFavouriteThings recently posted..Something To Dream About
Twitter: bonbonrosegirls
April 14, 2011 at 11:53 pm
What an inspiration you are! Young girls…well actually…all girls who are teetering on the self doubt seesaw should read this! And gorgeous scarf…xoxoKr
love your purse! You look beautiful!
Anika, this was beautiful! I love your honesty, your confidence, your fabulousity and just love YOU. You’re truly an inspiration, dear. Keeping doing what you do!
I love all your colorful scarves! This look is so effortless but all the colors and textures really make is so pretty!
this is such an honest post…I love how this came from deep within you my dear!!! before I happen to despise my own self and not love everything I have…but in the longer run and by blogging I was able to understand my flaws and imperfections and made that into something an advantage in my part
Kisses
Sweet
PensandLens
@mistytewest
Du er så vakker min kjære! Absolutely stunning! Love u lots!!!
Everyone needs to be respected, but the person need to respect herself first. Respect can never be imposed, it should be earned. And this will start by accepting and loving yourself first. I love your blog. You go girl!
Lyka recently posted..big truck games online
thanks for this very inspiring post! it proved something to me… we cannot really control what’s our situation or circumstances in life, but we can always control our choice.. it’s either to be happy or not.. it’s all up to us! and another thing.. You are really beautiful! especially your eyes..
ashley recently posted..anry birds game
Yes, and that is what keep us going! our goal for making ourselves more progressive. You are you, and no one can replace it girl. Go on with life and make it beautiful.
myrna60 recently posted..play angry birds online
You really are beautiful madame! you are beautiful inside and out! and your fashion sense is fantastic! keep living, don’t die inside! dieing inside make people ugly. You are not ugly! you deserve even the deepest form of respect and love!
badidoyz recently posted..angry birds
You are you, and nobody can take it away from you. You have your own fashion statement, and you don’t follow a trend. I like your guts and I like the way of being true to yourself. There are already less people like you. Everybody imitates.
maymay34 recently posted..free singles
hi Anika,
I’m here again.. I really love visiting your blog.. You have a very amazing outfit..
Megan recently posted..Missold Mortgages Compensation Claims
It should be earned. And this will start by accepting and loving yourself first. I love your blog..
kutingka recently posted..online truck games
You are being you and I admire you for that. You don’t imitate others but you got your own style. I like you for that.
louikay recently posted..free dating sites
Your positive attitude is quite remarkable. And that’s one of the things I really love about your blog’s.
Alvin Jr recently posted..How to win the lottery guaranteed
positive attitude is a big help for me to achieve. thanks for sharing…
Xirelle recently posted..tennage dating sites
Nice image it was wonderful dress.. Thanks for your blog! GREAT! |
guy recently posted..mario games for girls
great fashion, i like the dress i wanna know where you guys buy this..
Rai recently posted..pc angry birds
i like the style of the dress looks so nice i wonder if i wear those how do i look…?
Yuri recently posted..pc angry birds
you go girl!! you are beautiful in every single way!! great stuff!! great post!! i love it!! thanks for this one though!!
andury recently posted..BEST ONLINE DATING SITES
That’s what we call pretty thing, you are very fashionable..
Acee recently posted..advice for angry birds
That’s what we call pretty thing, you are very fashionable..
Nice job! You did a very good act of yourself.
optimusprime0506 recently posted..free bike racing games
NIce pose..I mean Super Fabulous Post!!!
Shaine recently posted..get a chexsystems report
Nice photos! You look great and fabulous!
ambotikaw recently posted..everyday paleo recipes
No fuss! Express your self, that is the real you. It really suppress you when the world dictates you on what to act and do. Shout out the real you and it really feels good, don’t let the world dictates you! that’s good go on with your role in this world.
cenrad recently posted..ONLINE DATING SITES
Twitter: AnikaByAnika
October 16, 2011 at 10:58 pm
Amen! Thank you for that, love.
I realized that self empowerment is the most powerful tool that we have.
I made (always) a conscious effort to tell my daughters how special, strong, smart, beautiful they are and that they must learn to love themselves first before loving anyone else!
MAressa recently posted..best dating sites
Twitter: AnikaByAnika
October 16, 2011 at 10:57 pm
YES! I am so glad to hear that, sweetheart. Hugs to you and your girls xo
Great pose! You are so beautiful in every angle! How do I look if I’m the one who ware’s that dress.
I really loved this post. You write about this topic very well. I really like your blog and I will definitely bookmark it! Keep up the super posts
Hello. I wanted to give you a note to verbalize my thankfulness. I have been watching your blog posts for a month and have got a ton of excellent tips and appreciated the way you have built your web site. I’m going to make my blog however I feel it is too general and I need to concentrate more on particular issues.
Pretty good post. I just came across your site and wanted to say that I have really enjoyed
reading your blog posts. Any way I’ll be coming back and I hope you post again soon.
I just came across your site and wanted to say that I have really enjoyed
reading your blog posts.
It really suppress you when the world dictates you on what to act and do.
{ 2 trackbacks }