Life slows us down, forcing us to confront the ebb and flow of our existence. As we journey through life, we cherish the three things that matter most: friends, family, and love. It’s extraordinary to experience all three together.

We judge our success by our relationships with others, our accomplishments, and the material possessions we accumulate. However, in pursuing external validation, we often disregard our most significant relationship — the one with ourselves.

When the world seems to be closing in on us, being our own ally can be the difference between falling apart and pulling through. Our relationship with ourselves is the foundation upon which our lives are built. Cultivating this relationship is more than just being kind to ourselves; it is a transformative practice. It’s about accepting that sometimes, no one will be there to hold our hand, and that’s okay.

Start by paying attention to your thoughts and feelings, sit with discomfort, and treat yourself with gentleness and empathy. Build a strong foundation that can weather any storm — start today and remember that you are worthy of your friendship.