Acting in love. This goes for self-love and loving others. I think it’s easier to have an outward expression of love toward others. By nature, I’m a giver. I want to support others, serve others, and love them through their struggles. Every action, no matter the size, is love. Pushing a button to turn on my husband’s coffee machine. Holding the door open for someone. Smiling at a stranger. Offering a listening ear to someone in need. All simple and all loving.

Why not do the same for yourself? What’s something simple and loving you can provide to your soul today? I’m not sure why we don’t give ourselves the same value and worth that we do others. Life can wait. It’s not always urgent to complete one task and move onto the next one. It’s okay to silence your phone or to not respond right away. Do what feeds your soul. For me, reading, being creative, involving myself in my spirituality, and music are all ways to feed my soul. They don’t require a deadline or a to-do list. I can do them with others, or by myself. They can all be fit into random parts of my day to hit “refresh.” They’re also simple and loving.

Kristen Ellis

Kristen has worked in the mental health field since 2013, with a focus on crisis work, substance use services, and bringing a voice to lived experience. Her ambition is to change the way mental health care and recovery is seen and achieved, so to redefine what it means to defeat adversity.