What kind of relationship do you have with yourself? Do you treat yourself with respect and kindness as you do with other people? We tend to hurt ourselves more because we carry emotional baggage around with us. It is our mind that keeps those unpleasant memories stuck with our thoughts, and actually we overlook the fact that those hurtful events "have us". When we bring those negative thoughts and feelings into our consciousness, we can begin to change how we live each day. Making the decision to create a new way of being...positive, happy, filled with zest, worthy of being respected, we free ourselves from the old thoughts, of guilt, resentment, unhappiness, fearful of rejection that have held us captive. This is the emotional baggage we carry forward. Creating a new relationship with ourselves and thoughts requires we heal our past and recognize we cannot change the past, but we can change our thoughts and how we feel. Being respectful of yourself starts with a deep sense of appreciation, acceptance and gratitude for the amazing strengths, talents and skills you have. If you are going to spend the rest of your days with yourself, wouldn't you rather live with a more joyous and positive self? How will you begin creating a life that thrives and flourishes with vitality? What is one thing you will do today that will enhance your personal effectiveness? How will you show greater respect for yourself today?