Hey there. One of the hardest things I’ve ever had to learn is how to see myself the way the people who truly love me do. For most of my life, I’ve been my own toughest critic. I’ve looked in the mirror and focused on every flaw. I’ve replayed mistakes and convinced myself that I wasn’t enough. And the truth is, those thoughts have stolen more time and energy than I’d like to admit.
But when I stop and really think about how the people who care about me see me, the perspective is completely different. They don’t pick apart my body. They don’t replay every moment where I fell short. They see someone who shows up for them. They see someone who tries, who cares, who gives. And if I allow myself to lean into that, I realize how unfair I’ve been to myself.
When we look at ourselves only through our own critical lens, we block the truth. We miss the love, the acceptance, and the appreciation that others freely give. Seeing yourself as those who truly love you do isn’t about ignoring growth or pretending life is perfect. It’s about shifting from judgment to compassion. It’s about understanding that you’re worthy right now, not just when you hit a goal weight or check off a box.
The inside/out approach teaches me that lasting change starts with the relationship I have with myself. If I can start to see myself through a lens of love, I’ll treat myself differently. I’ll make choices not out of punishment, but out of care. And the funny thing is, when I approach things that way, consistency gets easier. Progress feels more natural.
If you’ve been on this journey for years, you know the toll it takes to always feel like you’re not enough. But think about the people who love you. They aren’t waiting for you to look a certain way before they show up for you. They already see the good. What if you started seeing yourself through that same lens? What if you gave yourself that same level of kindness?
You’ve always been enough. It’s time to start believing it, not just because I’m saying it, but because those who truly love you already know it.
If you’re ready to start practicing this shift in your own life, I’d love to help you. Join one of The YLF Experience coaching options and begin building from a place of self acceptance and genuine love.