It takes 5-7 times for something to stick—whether you hear it, see it, or say it.

Knowing that… what if I told you loving yourself might take a minute—especially if you’ve spent years not knowing how?

As adoptees, we can feel like we have to have it all together. Every step, every routine, perfectly mapped out. Trust me, I’ve been there—hi, my name is I love to control outcomes.

But here’s the thing: the outcome isn’t mine to control. My job? To live in the moment and do the best I can.

Live in the seconds, adopted Black girl.
They’re gonna pass by anyway—and you deserve to be in them.

And I know… no one really taught us how to love ourselves while also figuring out who we are. So, here are a few things that have helped me:

1. Can’t say “I love you” in the mirror (yet)? Write it on sticky notes and place them in five spots around your home. It doesn’t even have to be those exact words. Try:

• “I am beautiful.”
• “I matter.”
• “I will finish my assignment today.”
  Love can be loud—or it can be quiet. Both count.
  

2. Say NO. Not to the things you need to do (like taking care of your health), but to the stuff you genuinely don’t want or need to do. Take your time back.

3. Eat. Three meals, five meals—whatever feels good. Keep it simple. Simplicity is the name of the game. (P.S. Need breakfast inspo? Check my Pinterest board.)

At the end of the day, I need you to love you—because you need you.

Remember: 5-7 times. Repetition becomes routine.

Did this hit home? Let me know below in the comments.

From my room with love,

Teisha