So, here’s the thing: as women, we’re pretty amazing at taking care of everyone around us. We can attend to our families down to the smallest detail, speak life into our kids, pour love into our husbands, and just give, give, give. But when it comes to ourselves, let’s be honest—we’re not always so kind. Am I right? You know what I mean. Just walk into a dressing room and think about what crosses your mind. Something like, “Oh, how wonderfully and fearfully made I am!”? Ha! Probably not. Instead, it’s more like, “Why is my butt so big? Why can’t I get rid of these arm flaps? When did my chin double?”
Sound familiar? We’re pros at pinpointing every little thing we see as “wrong.” And believe me, I’ve been there. For years, I lived with an on/off narrative of negativity, struggling to face the fact that I wasn’t built like all the size 6 girls, or that I wasn’t smart enough. But over time, God’s done a work in me, helping me rewrite those thoughts and learning how to be kind to myself. So today, I thought we’d have a little fun and go over the 10 Commandments of Being Kind to Yourself. Maybe print these out and stick them where you’ll see them—a little reminder to give yourself the same grace you so freely give to others.
Are you ready? Here we go!
Thou Shalt Not Skip Breakfast (or Chocolate)
Your body is a temple, and that temple deserves nourishment! Start your day with something good, and don’t forget your coffee (you knew I had to say that…haha!)—and treat yourself every now and then, because joy is part of taking care of yourself, and as mom’s or even empty nester’s, we can sometimes forget that.Honor Thy Rest Day, Even if it’s Only Five Minutes in the Car Alone
Rest isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. Sneak in those moments to recharge, even if it’s just a breather before heading home.Thou Shalt Speak Kindly to Thy Reflection
Look in the mirror and remember that you are fearfully and wonderfully made. Negative self-talk is not allowed—only words that uplift! Why? Because God doesn’t speak that way about you so neither should you.Remember to Move and Have Fun Doing It
Moving your body doesn’t have to be a chore. Dance in the kitchen, take a walk, or do whatever makes you feel alive. My fave, disco music and housecleaning! Who says a mop handle can’t be a mic! And no, I’ve never gone running down the hallway with the mop in hand singing, really, I haven’t……Thou Shalt Not Compare Thyself to Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, etc
Social media can be fun, but it doesn’t define your worth. Embrace your own beautiful, messy life—filters off. Yes, I said, filters off.Honor the Body God Gave You by Treating it Well
Hydrate, stretch, rest. Treat your body with the respect it deserves because it’s a gift. Sit outside on the back porch, take a walk, enjoy a bubble bath.Thou Shalt Laugh Often (Even at Thyself)
Laughter is one of God’s sweetest gifts. Don’t take yourself too seriously—let laughter lighten your heart.Thou Shalt Be Patient with Thyself
Change takes time, growth takes time, and it’s okay to go at your own pace. You’re a work in progress.Remember the Power of “No”
Saying “no” can be holy. Protect your peace and know your boundaries—it’s okay not to do it all.Thou Shalt Give Thyself Grace—Every Day
You’re human, you’re learning, and you’re loved just as you are. Extend yourself the grace you’d give to a friend.
After all, being kind to yourself isn’t about vanity or selfishness—it’s about honoring the life God’s given you and allowing His love to flow through every part of who you are. God wants you to live fully and joyfully, and that starts with showing yourself a little grace, love, and yes—some chocolate now and then!
Scripture for Reflection:
“Love your neighbor as yourself.” – Mark 12:31 (NLT)
We often focus on the “love your neighbor” part, but Jesus reminds us to “love…as yourself.” This means seeing ourselves through His eyes, embracing our worth, and treating ourselves with the same kindness and compassion we would offer a friend. That’s the heart behind these “commandments”—to remind you that you’re worthy of the same love and grace you give to others.
So, next time you catch yourself slipping into that “not enough” mindset, remember these commandments. Being kind to yourself isn’t selfish; it’s a God-thing, it’s part of showing up for those you love. God’s got your back, and He’s cheering you on to love yourself, too!