Finding Inner Peace and Self Love

Guest post from Chanesia Harper of 1 Special Cookie:

I have always felt that I loved myself. I made sure to do things that interest me like shopping till I drop. I wasn’t aware that I had more to learn and more love to give to myself. It took me ending a 6-year relationship to truly learn about me.

As I started the healing process I went through several emotions: sadness, anger, self-doubt, blame, depression and confusion. More than anything I felt alone. Even though I have tons of family and friends in my life, I was still struggling. It didn’t matter how much love and support I had, the pain and hurt would not leave me. I thought no one truly understood what I was going through.

It was also something I felt I had to hide. This delayed my healing process. I finally had to face the reality that I was in more pain then I thought. I had to put my pride aside and start the healing process.

• Forgive myself
• Admitting my mistakes out loud
• Owning those mistakes
• Learn from my mistakes
• Accepting that everyone mistakes
• Take action to show myself the most love
• Try new things

Traveling

I have always wanted to travel but sometimes there are things that come up to stop that. Sometimes I just didn’t know where to go or where to start. I had wanted to return to New York to get the full experience. My previous trip was only for a few hours.

When it comes to traveling it can be hard to find other people to agree to the same time, location or budget you choose. So I ended up going solo, my very first solo trip. If you have ever needed “me” time, no matter what is going on if your life, a solo trip is a great idea.

• Do research for cost, weather, things to do, etc.
• Pick a destination-beach or no beach (super difficult right?)
• Breath, get out of your head, hit submit to that hotel, plane ticket, excursions, etc.

 

Now I gave the tip to research things to do. But I did not take my own advice. I booked my plane ticket and Air BNB with no idea of what to do when I reached my destination. All I knew is I wanted to get away. I packed my whole house and hopped on a plane. As I got off the plane and picked up my luggage it became a surreal reality that I was alone. Somehow I wasn’t scared.

I settled in with my Air BnB host who was really nice and showed me around to her favorite spots. The next day I got on the subway and set off to explore the Big Apple. Traveling alone was breathtaking and a real eye-opener. It gave me a chance to really think about my break up, my life, and my future. I had the opportunity to really see New York for all its beauty. Traveling solo, I was on my on time, taking in the scene at my own pace, and on my own budget. I learned more about myself than I ever have.

I was able to return home refreshed and ready to embark on a new journey chapter in my life. Anything can happen at any time so don’t be afraid to live your life to the fullest.

**Chanesia Harper is a freelance content writer that blogs at 1 Special Cookie. You can reach her by email here and follow her on Instagram here.