We teach people how to treat us by how we treat ourselves.

We often wonder why people in our lives disrespect us like they do.

It’s like, “Damn… they just don’t get it!”

Are you sure it’s others who don’t get it, or is it you?

I can speak from my personal experience and from that of the girls and women I’ve worked with over the years. The minute we begin treating ourselves like we matter, others follow suit.

When you take time for yourself, nourish your soul and set proper boundaries, those around you won’t have the guts to treat you like garbage.

Your behaviors toward yourself are a public declaration that says, “I matter, so don’t f@ck with me.” And believe me, they won’t.

Illustration by Shyanne Trutwein.