Last week I watched a live post on Instagram which prompted me to take a second to do some self reflection. This year we have all seen nothing but curve balls. However, I do hope we all remember to take care of ourselves. We’ve all been trapped indoors for quite a while and though some of us are essential workers only going to work and returning home can still be a lot on one’s psyche. The lack of social interaction can bring one’s inner battles to the surface. Are you prepared to spend this time with yourself? Hopefully with the world slowly reopening most of us are doing pretty good mentally but if things were to go south and we are back in total isolation for another couple months could your psyche manage? Instead of only wanting to leave isolation with a new side gig or hobby why not want to leave with a bigger and better sense of self?

Who are you? What is your purpose? What makes you happy? What is your love language? If I were to ask you these simple questions would you be able to give me an honest answer? I can finally say yes I can but if you had asked me this a couple years ago my answers would have been generic. The hope is that by answering these questions one can start to build self love and self awareness in these trying times.

Who am I? A nurse, a daughter, a sister and a friend. I’m the person that some consider to be shy while others consider to be the no nonsense chatterbox. I am honest, loyal, empathetic and selfless but I can also be stubborn, blunt and sometimes forget to use my “inside face”. I am not two dimensional in any means and it’s knowing this about myself that has gotten me where I am today.

What is my purpose? This is an easy one. My purpose is to help those that are not quite able to help themselves. I knew this from an early age. I have always been involved with volunteering so deciding to become a nurse was a natural next step.

What makes me happy? Family! Everything about family makes my heart smile. I had an amazing childhood and I love every part of the family dynamics that come into play. Which also is why I love my job. I get to welcome new life into the world and watch how these families fall helplessly in love with their newest member.

What is my love language? If you have never heard of love languages then boy have you been missing out. I first read The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman for a college class about three or more years ago and I must say it was a good read. The gist here is knowing what makes you feel loved from those around you. There are many quizzes online that can assist you with this. Once you do know then start doing these things for yourself. Mine is Acts of Service and during this time I have been doing just that. I’ve focused on doing things for myself be it a pedicure, skincare or a shopping spree for the summer I hope to have.