True self-love isn’t about perfection; it’s about recognizing your worth regardless of external achievements or validation.
It means setting boundaries, speaking kindly to yourself, and prioritizing your well-being, even when the world demands otherwise.
When you cultivate self-love, you create a deep inner trust that allows you to navigate life with confidence, resilience, and grace. It is not selfish; it is necessary, because when you love yourself, you show up more fully for others and for the life you truly desire.
Thank you Tracey! Happy to have you on the challenge! Beautifully said. This is a powerful reminder that self-love is not a luxury but a foundation for living with intention and authenticity. Truly inspiring and deeply resonant!
This resonates deeply, Tracey! It took me so long to learn what self-love was, and one of the things it meant was telling my nervous system, "You're safe."
On our first ever road trip, my now husband and I listened to David Deida’s Intimate Communion. It was a relic, left behind by my mom (a story for another day).
What has stuck with me most, is this single phrase, which landed in my brain this morning, and is helping me take one step, and then another in a world that feels chaotic.
You're very welcome Lily! Thrilled to have you on the challenge! I love how you tied a personal memory to a timeless principle. It’s a beautiful reminder to lead with love, even when the world feels overwhelming!
Ooh I love that! I've never read that one, but I know my husband did and found it meaningful. I'm so glad you got a lot out of it. He talks about polarity in Intimate Communion too, and it was super helpful for our relationship. Something we continue to refer to.
Lily, I'm not married never have been and haven't read the book, but I do believe that marriage is a "holy communion" or as you might say an intimate communion.one reason I have never married is trying to find someone willing to commit through the good and the bad and the ups and the downs. I remember there was a percentage they were talking about people getting divorced and it was well over 50% and I just couldn't believe it. I'm just so glad that I haven't married because I think it is for life except for extenuating circumstances like abuse, etc.
I'm glad you found a path that works for you, Kathleen. Marriage has been a huge opportunity to learn and grow for me and something I always knew I wanted, but I think there are so many ways to live a good life. No one path is inherently better or worse–just the one for us in this life. 💜
yeah, it's not that I did want to marry. And I know that we grow and learn in all kinds of relationships and marriage would be one of the main ones. just could never find the right person- everyone I dated wanted either mothers or people to take care of them in that way and that's not what I was looking for.
Such an important and timely question. The idea of energy leaks is so real, yet often overlooked. I love how you frame boundary-setting not as harsh or rigid, but as a gentle act of self-respect!
That’s such a thoughtful insight, Sara. It’s true—energy leaks often go unnoticed, yet they can take such a toll. I love the idea of boundaries as a gentle act of self-respect rather than something rigid. Thank you for sharing!
Hi Alain! Nice to have you on the challenge! Interviews are always exciting, happy for you! I had my first written interview a couple of weeks ago. Perhaps in the future through live! LOVED your note!
Hi Tracy, Thank you so much. I really appreciate it. Please let me know if you have any feedback i would love to hear that! we can connect for collaborations and recommendations too! thanks!
Hi, all. I love this, and I will read through all your love notes. Here is the link to my note, inspired by the photo of my dog with his best friend, the cat, who became a family member through this friendship.
Hi Eva! Welcome to the challenge! This is such a warm reflection! You’ve captured the essence of true connection. A reminder that openness and kindness can create belonging in the most unexpected places! (LOVE the picture! 😍)
Awww. Love this. I know my pup would love a friend, but it's just not possible right now. Your photo reminds me to keep it on my someday list. Thanks, Eva.
Happy to see you liked this week's challenge Sophie! You have BEAUTIFUL pictures, I remember the last ones you shared with us. Looking forward to see more! 😍
I agree, I received your message as a reminder to love who you are and avoid the pain of trying to fit in, which diminishes our capacity for love and joy. I hit Like on your page as well. 😊
Happy to have you on the challenge Kathleen! This moved me to tears. The way you speak about Kenny makes him feel present, like he’s still walking into rooms and lifting them with his light. Your love for him lives in every word.
I loved this Sophia 😍 And I can relate. I had my baby cat for 23 years, he was the joy of my life! Sending you, your traveling husband and your baby angel my best wishes!
I’m joining Sara Redondo, MD‘s challenge for the week—I eagerly wait for Mondays to see the topic, and this time, it’s love. As soon as I read that, my mind went to my 4-year-old daughter.
She is my greatest teacher, my biggest inspiration, and the reason I care so deeply about health and well-being. Watching her grow reminds me daily that our choices matter—what we eat, how we rest, how we nurture our bodies and minds. She keeps me grounded in my mission, not just as a mother but as someone who wants to help others feel their best, so they can show up fully for the ones they love.
Love is the foundation of what I do. And she is my daily reminder of why it matters. 💛
Happy to see you're enjoying the challenges Karina! Thrilled that you're in! Your daughter has a wonderful mom. Wishing you and your lovely family my best wishes ❤️
Glad you liked the challenge Tracy! Thrilled to have you on board! There’s so much quiet wisdom in this! It’s a needed reminder that perfection isn’t the goal, authenticity is. Your words speak directly to the heart of every creator who’s ever hesitated, waiting for things to be “just right.” Thank you for encouraging us to keep showing up, flaws and all, and to trust that what’s meant for us will find us when we do!
Happy to have you on the challenge Bronce! 🙌 I love the idea that our path is as unique as a fingerprint. Your words gently affirm that true wellbeing isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s deeply personal, and ours to discover!
how nice! maybe this one is a nice one to share: https://substack.com/@claudiafaith/note/c-101521721 🧡
Lovely to see you in the challenge Claudia! And powerful words in your note. Substack is top level to create community ❤️
Love this note, Claudia! Substack truly does seem to be a different kind of community. I'm loving it here :)
I couldn’t agree more, Claudia! Happy to have found your little corner of the internet here! 💛 And thank you, too!
So true, Claudia. Substack is a welcoming community and a place to build wonderful connections.
Great idea Sara, thank you. Link - https://substack.com/profile/102035211-tracey-fenner/note/c-102967223?utm_source=notes-share-action&r=1oqyvf
True self-love isn’t about perfection; it’s about recognizing your worth regardless of external achievements or validation.
It means setting boundaries, speaking kindly to yourself, and prioritizing your well-being, even when the world demands otherwise.
When you cultivate self-love, you create a deep inner trust that allows you to navigate life with confidence, resilience, and grace. It is not selfish; it is necessary, because when you love yourself, you show up more fully for others and for the life you truly desire.
#selflove
Thank you Tracey! Happy to have you on the challenge! Beautifully said. This is a powerful reminder that self-love is not a luxury but a foundation for living with intention and authenticity. Truly inspiring and deeply resonant!
Beautiful message that so many of us need to hear OFTEN. I hit Like on your page as well. 😊
Thank you Morgan 🙏
So true! I wonder why I forget about it again and again. 😊 thanks for the beautiful reminded! 🙋♀️💖
You are welcome, glad to hear it resonated 🙏 have a great day ❤️
This resonates deeply, Tracey! It took me so long to learn what self-love was, and one of the things it meant was telling my nervous system, "You're safe."
Glad it resonates Karina, for me it’s an ongoing practice 🙏
Thank you I’ll take a look tomorrow 🙏
So much truth, Tracey. Apologies for the extra link in this chat, but that's a key message of my newsletter this week: Recognizing the treasures within us! https://open.substack.com/pub/profwalker/p/recognizing-the-treasure-within-yourself?r=58o3ch&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
Beautiful, Tracey! Wonderful messages that we all need to hear.
Thank you Sonia for your kind comment 🙏
Thanks for doing this Sara! Here's the link to my note: https://substack.com/@lilysussman/note/c-90987743?utm_source=notes-share-action&r=4coa1v
Here's the text:
On our first ever road trip, my now husband and I listened to David Deida’s Intimate Communion. It was a relic, left behind by my mom (a story for another day).
What has stuck with me most, is this single phrase, which landed in my brain this morning, and is helping me take one step, and then another in a world that feels chaotic.
What would love do?
What would love do?
What would LOVE do?
You're very welcome Lily! Thrilled to have you on the challenge! I love how you tied a personal memory to a timeless principle. It’s a beautiful reminder to lead with love, even when the world feels overwhelming!
Powerful message! I hit Like on your page as well. 😊
Thanks Morgan! I'm glad it resonated :)
I remember reading once that we act out of love or fear - it’s always one of the two. So, it’s a good reminder to ask myself this question.
Yes! There is certainly power in recognizing what's behind our actions.
I didn't read that one, but I read the way of the superior man by Deida.
That book changed my perception of love relationships, but beyond that of the feminine / masculine polarities.
I remember a particular moment where I said to myself: damn, this man understands me. And by finding words to feelings, I understood myself better.
Ooh I love that! I've never read that one, but I know my husband did and found it meaningful. I'm so glad you got a lot out of it. He talks about polarity in Intimate Communion too, and it was super helpful for our relationship. Something we continue to refer to.
Lily, I'm not married never have been and haven't read the book, but I do believe that marriage is a "holy communion" or as you might say an intimate communion.one reason I have never married is trying to find someone willing to commit through the good and the bad and the ups and the downs. I remember there was a percentage they were talking about people getting divorced and it was well over 50% and I just couldn't believe it. I'm just so glad that I haven't married because I think it is for life except for extenuating circumstances like abuse, etc.
I'm glad you found a path that works for you, Kathleen. Marriage has been a huge opportunity to learn and grow for me and something I always knew I wanted, but I think there are so many ways to live a good life. No one path is inherently better or worse–just the one for us in this life. 💜
yeah, it's not that I did want to marry. And I know that we grow and learn in all kinds of relationships and marriage would be one of the main ones. just could never find the right person- everyone I dated wanted either mothers or people to take care of them in that way and that's not what I was looking for.
It's all good 😉
Energy Check: Time to Reclaim Your Focus.
https://substack.com/@sculptedthoughts/note/c-102712113?r=2ir5hi&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=notes-share-action
Such an important and timely question. The idea of energy leaks is so real, yet often overlooked. I love how you frame boundary-setting not as harsh or rigid, but as a gentle act of self-respect!
That’s such a thoughtful insight, Sara. It’s true—energy leaks often go unnoticed, yet they can take such a toll. I love the idea of boundaries as a gentle act of self-respect rather than something rigid. Thank you for sharing!
Yes to this!! Thank you. I hit Like on your page as well. 😊
Thank you 😊
Love it! Thanks for all these great prompts.
Thank you Lily ☺️
Definitely something I need to continue to work on. Thanks for the reminder, Sara!
My absolute pleasure
Absolutely thank you Sara, where attention goes energy flows.
Yes! That’s such a powerful truth, Tracey. Where we focus our attention, our energy follows. Grateful that this resonated with you!
Hello Everyone, Thanks, Sara!
Hope you have a great week ahead.
I am excited; I did my first interview this is the link.
https://open.substack.com/pub/alainhajjar/p/gaining-clarity-in-life?utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
And this is my latest note:
https://substack.com/@riseandclarity/note/c-102876110
Thank you,
Alain | Rise & Clarity Insider
Hi Alain! Nice to have you on the challenge! Interviews are always exciting, happy for you! I had my first written interview a couple of weeks ago. Perhaps in the future through live! LOVED your note!
Thank you so much. I appreciate your work Sara. Would be happy if we do live also and we collaborate.
Thank you for your kind words Alain. I’m sure we’ll find something!
Thanks Sara! 🙌🏼
Great pep talk for new Substack writers (like me!) in just one sentence. Well done!!! I hit Like on your page as well. 😊
Love your note, and will check out your fist interview too.
Hi Tracy, Thank you so much. I really appreciate it. Please let me know if you have any feedback i would love to hear that! we can connect for collaborations and recommendations too! thanks!
I will Alain. I haven’t braved the live/ video options yet on Substack but I look forward to connecting, colloborating and recommendations.
Ok, no problem. Already contacted you. We go from there. Thanks!
Hi, all. I love this, and I will read through all your love notes. Here is the link to my note, inspired by the photo of my dog with his best friend, the cat, who became a family member through this friendship.
https://substack.com/@evahakes/note/c-103044445?utm_source=notes-share-action&r=59mkl
Hi Eva! Welcome to the challenge! This is such a warm reflection! You’ve captured the essence of true connection. A reminder that openness and kindness can create belonging in the most unexpected places! (LOVE the picture! 😍)
I mean, how can we see that SWEET moment you captured and not feel love fill up our hearts?! Thank you! I hit Like on your page as well. 😊
Thank you, Morgan. I'm happy I could capture this moment of connection, and thank you for taking the time to respond this way. It makes me happy. :-)
Awww. Love this. I know my pup would love a friend, but it's just not possible right now. Your photo reminds me to keep it on my someday list. Thanks, Eva.
Yes, keep it on the list. It's so beautiful to have these companions. 😊
Yes. Someday. ;-)
Love this week's challenge! My note is some snapshots of life in the remote mountain village I traveled to last week.
It's the little things 💗
https://substack.com/@msophiefrancis/note/c-102991368
Happy to see you liked this week's challenge Sophie! You have BEAUTIFUL pictures, I remember the last ones you shared with us. Looking forward to see more! 😍
Thank you, Sara :)
Beauty in the little things - things that are all around us ALL the time, right? Great reminder. I hit Like on your page as well. 😊
Agreed! Thank you, Morgan :)
No better place to notice the little things than in a remote mountain village, away from the constant buzz of the world! Beautiful, Sophie!
Right?! Thank you, Karina :)
Great idea:
https://substack.com/@playeronesub/note/c-103005790?r=5v5f&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=notes-share-action
I missed the love part but I guess it could be interpreted as loving ourselves! Looking forward to see your note next week!
I agree, I received your message as a reminder to love who you are and avoid the pain of trying to fit in, which diminishes our capacity for love and joy. I hit Like on your page as well. 😊
Thank you, Dr. Redonda. This is lovely.
He Didn’t Just Live… He Showed Us How To Love
https://substack.com/@holisticnursekathleen/note/c-102888039
Happy to have you on the challenge Kathleen! This moved me to tears. The way you speak about Kenny makes him feel present, like he’s still walking into rooms and lifting them with his light. Your love for him lives in every word.
Love would change so that all people would be free. Lead us Lord!
what a sweet topic! here's a silly one about my love for my cat:
A series of texts between my traveling husband and me regarding The Cat:
3:06 AM: he’s a demon.
4:10 AM: straight from hell
6:32 AM: look at this sweet baby angel who came to snuggle <pic>
7:04: should we get another
<no response>
https://substack.com/@sophiaisvoracious/note/c-91488850
I loved this Sophia 😍 And I can relate. I had my baby cat for 23 years, he was the joy of my life! Sending you, your traveling husband and your baby angel my best wishes!
I love your challenges, Sara!! Here's my contribution to this one.
https://substack.com/@karinabaloleanu/note/c-103203196
I’m joining Sara Redondo, MD‘s challenge for the week—I eagerly wait for Mondays to see the topic, and this time, it’s love. As soon as I read that, my mind went to my 4-year-old daughter.
She is my greatest teacher, my biggest inspiration, and the reason I care so deeply about health and well-being. Watching her grow reminds me daily that our choices matter—what we eat, how we rest, how we nurture our bodies and minds. She keeps me grounded in my mission, not just as a mother but as someone who wants to help others feel their best, so they can show up fully for the ones they love.
Love is the foundation of what I do. And she is my daily reminder of why it matters. 💛
Happy to see you're enjoying the challenges Karina! Thrilled that you're in! Your daughter has a wonderful mom. Wishing you and your lovely family my best wishes ❤️
So precious!
How lovely, Sara. Thank you! This note is about What's perfect for you:
There’s no such thing as a perfect life…or a perfect note, post, essay, or book.
There’s perfect for you.
And what’s perfect for you is different than what’s perfect for the next person.
Don’t let the pursuit of perfection stop you from doing what you love or what you feel called to do.
Do what you love, be consistent and kind, and the right people will appear.
https://substack.com/profile/7708555-tracy-mansolillo/note/c-103079831
Glad you liked the challenge Tracy! Thrilled to have you on board! There’s so much quiet wisdom in this! It’s a needed reminder that perfection isn’t the goal, authenticity is. Your words speak directly to the heart of every creator who’s ever hesitated, waiting for things to be “just right.” Thank you for encouraging us to keep showing up, flaws and all, and to trust that what’s meant for us will find us when we do!
Thank, you Sara. Thrilled to be here.
SHARING LOVE
Amazing things happen when you share love. A fun haiku (picture in note):
------------------------------------------
Snoopy Happy Dance:
Make another’s day brighter
And you become (smile)…
------------------------------------------
Wayward Haiku by Pamela Cotton
https://substack.com/profile/34626488-pamela-cotton-phd/note/c-103072519
Happy to see you on the challenge Pamela! ❤️ It’s amazing how just a few simple words can lift the spirit and remind us of the ripple effect of love!
“Keep your face always toward the sunshine and the shadows will fall behind you.”
Remember that no matter what is happening in your life, there is always a new day, a new dawn…
And like the daily ritual of the sun rising, hope rises too…with the promise of a new day…
We just need to take more time to stop, face the sun and absorb…the beauty is there…
Waiting for us to smile, lean into the light and spread that sunshine whenever we can…
https://substack.com/@sheiladembowski/note/c-100176392
Your words carry the warmth of the sun itself, inviting us to pause and breathe!
Great point made here. I work with vulnerable people and we have to start every day anew. It is the only way they can survive.
Thank you Sara :)
https://substack.com/@broncerice1/note/c-100412857
What if “the journey in life”, and thus our wellbeing equation(s), is like a fingerprint that is unique to us.
In this case, the journey wouldn’t be about fitting in per se, but about finding out along the way what fits us.
Thus, your journey today is figuring out how to feel more alive in healthy ways that don’t need to fit anybody else but you.
👉🙏 🫶 👣 🌻 ✨❤️🔥
Happy to have you on the challenge Bronce! 🙌 I love the idea that our path is as unique as a fingerprint. Your words gently affirm that true wellbeing isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s deeply personal, and ours to discover!