No More Labels

Hello ladies,

I pray that you all have had an enjoyable weekend and a positive start to this new week. Today I want to share with you the importance of not living your life based on labels. Regardless of who you are, the moment you were born, people started using words to describe your looks, style, and personality which formed your identity. People might have said “oh, what a cute baby” or “you have eyes like your mother”. As you grew up, you might have been known as the shy kid, the teenager who was extremely smart, or the creative adult. As a young adult, you might have been called different nicknames by your friends and family, and as you grow into your adult years, you sometimes label yourself and tell other people what you are known for, and sometimes those nicknames become a part of your identity.

You learn about yourself by the labels people put on you, and you accept those labels as your truth. Sometimes you may even put labels on yourself. The labels you put on yourself can be from the negative way that you see your mistakes or faults. You might say, “I’m always late, that’s just the way I am”, or “I’m an introvert and don’t like socializing” or you may even feel like you are a bad mother because your children are always in trouble. You learn to live your life and the labels other people give you and that you accept, then they become barriers that you hide behind.

Ladies, today we are going to take off those labels. No more hiding behind labels. Whether they were put on you by others, or you put them on yourself. We are going to start being the true essence of our authentic selves. Utilizing emotional intelligence, here are seven ways to get rid of negative labels.

Self-Assessment: When you catch yourself speaking a negative label about yourself, take a moment to stop, think, and assess the source of that negative label. Did it come from family members, friends, colleagues, or society at large? Understanding where these labels originate can help you address them effectively.

Self-Reflection: Take some time for self-reflection. Consider the negative labels that have been placed on you and how they have affected your self-esteem and self-perception. Don’t be afraid to acknowledge your feelings and emotions surrounding these labels.

Challenge Negative Beliefs: Be courageous enough to question the validity of these negative labels. Ask yourself if they are based on facts or simply stereotypes and prejudices. Seek the truth that contradicts these labels and celebrate your strengths and positive qualities.

Be Mindful of Your Inner Circle: Surround yourself with individuals who uplift and support you. Seek out friends, mentors, or support groups that encourage your personal growth and self-acceptance. Their positive influence can help counteract the impact of negative labels.

Set Personal Goals: Establish clear personal goals and aspirations. Shifting your mind to start focusing on your own ambitions and what you want to achieve can move your attention away from the labels placed on you by others. Setting and accomplishing these goals will boost your self-esteem.

Self-Care and Well-being: Make your self-care and well-being a priority. Engage in activities that promote physical and mental health, such as exercise, meditation, therapy, or hobbies that bring you joy. Creating in your private world a sense of peace of mind and spirit can help you build resilience against negative labels.

Know the True YOU: Embrace your authentic self and celebrate your uniqueness. Rewrite your self-identity in a positive light, focusing on your strengths, values, and passions. Be unapologetically yourself! Remember that the process of shedding negative labels may take time, and it's normal to have moments of self-doubt along the way. Stay consistent and committed to your personal growth and self-empowerment. Accept the fact that you are fearfully and wonderfully made. (Psalms 139:14), then take your power back and you decide your worth and no one else.

Love and Blessings,

Dr. Doris

Call to Action: Watch the video for more inspiration on removing labels.