From Fading Away to Rising Strong: I Chose Me

Years ago I made a life-changing decision: I chose ME.

And it took me from fading away to rising strong.

For years, I let myself fade to the background of my own life story, be spoken to with words of hurt and disrespect by people who claimed to love me and I forgave them with no apology or behavior change necessary. I quieted my voice to keep the peace or not make others uncomfortable (even when I was) and I watched the shy, insecure girl of my youth re-emerge.

But then, one day, something triggered a spark. I grew weary of carrying that baggage and that version of me. I knew I could be so much more, that I deserved more. And I knew this worn down version really wasn’t me. Not deep at my core, at the soul level. It was time to shed that layer. So I realized that I could accept this was my life and who I would continue to be. Or I could choose something different.

So I chose to change the narrative of my own life and write a new story.

I choose ME.

From that day, I promised myself that I wouldn’t fade nor quiet my voice to appease or make others feel better. I would still show kindness and respect to those who earned and deserved it, but I would no longer tolerate disrespect nor cruelty in words or actions. We can disagree but respectfully. WORDS MATTER. I would also be more mindful of my words, thoughts and actions.

And I would be more protective of who is allowed inside my circle, even if that means my circle shrinks to only a trusted few (for a time, my circle was very small but over time it’s grown again to include a fabulous group of loving, kind, trustworthy people – THANK YOU to those who consistently show up in kindness and love).

It was worth the uneven ground of change.

It was not easy to upend and change my life. However, I knew I wanted, no, I HAD to have something different, MORE for my life. Ease, joy, love, laughter. Courage, confidence, joy, adventure and so much more were again able to take root and rise up to help me build a beautiful life. Do I have everything I want? Nope. But there is so much love and laughter flowing through my life. And I have the clarity and capacity to continue to build and walk the path towards all my dreams.

Because I chose me.

It’s easy to get settled and comfortable in a routine or lifestyle, even when you’re actually feeling uncomfortable. But at the end of the day, individuals have to choose what you want your life to look like, what emotions you want included, what outcomes you’re seeking.

Sometimes I need to pause and reflect on how much I’ve overcome and recovered from. I need to remind myself of that choice.

I am PROUD of me for CHOOSING ME. For choosing love and kindness.

Here’s how you can choose you too

If you’re ready to start but aren’t sure how, here are a few gentle ways to begin choosing yourself:

• Pause and reflect: Notice where you’ve been settling or silencing yourself. Awareness is the first step toward change.
• Set boundaries: Decide what behaviors, words, or energy you will no longer accept—and honor that commitment to yourself.
• Protect your circle: Surround yourself with people who uplift and respect you, even if that means your circle is smaller for a while.
• Repeat your mantra: A simple phrase like “Today I choose me” can help anchor your choices each day.
• Celebrate progress: Every time you honor your needs—whether by saying no, speaking up, or practicing self-care—acknowledge it as a win.

Choosing yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential. And it just might be the bravest, most beautiful decision you ever make.

Have you made a big change in life that led to you choosing YOU?

Sending love & light to help you feel rise up too.