#128🚿 You're in “self-denial"

And that's a good thing...

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I’m on a mission to put the “Personal” back into Personal Development

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Shower thought🚿: Denial, Self-Denial, and Denying the self.

“He’s in self-denial” — Here’s a term I’ve often heard thrown around without understanding it’s full meaning.

You know the story. You hear (or say) this as part of gossip. Perhaps it’s about a family member or friend who refuses to acknowledge the truth about himself or a situation.

Spoken in this context — this is denial — undoubtedly negative.

Denial is a defense mechanism, an “invisible wall” we between us and our problems. We feel temporary safety, delaying the nasty feelings of discomfort or anxiety.

But — context matters — and there is a different meaning to “self-denial”.

When we deny the self, we place our needs below others.

Admittedly, I’ve been focused on myself too much as of late. While working on “balance, “self-care”, and dissecting my own “ego” from my “self" — I seem to have forgotten the most basic concept my parent’s taught me as a toddler.

“It’s not all about me.” (or you…)

This is my home for personal development. I want to understand myself, and give you tools to do the same, in pursuit of improvement.

But not at the expense of being human.

And being human is rooted in our shared human experience. The love we share, and the pain, troubles, and trials we all face.

Self Denial and the season of Lent

In Mark 8:34, Jesus states “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.”

In the Christian context — this is self-denial — Intentionally living a life pleasing to God and serving others, even at the expense of personal desire or comfort.

For Catholics and Christians alike, we’re in the season of Lent.

I’ve always had a surface-level understanding of Lent.
- Give something up you like
- Fast on Good Friday

I never understood why, other than to suffer for suffering’s sake.

But suffering is not the point.
It’s a mindset shift.
From “Me” to “We”
From “Them” to “Us”

So from me to you, take care of yourself and your neighbor too.

— Keep moving forward.

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THANK YOU for making it to the end!

The ColdShower: Weekly ideas for better health, habits, and happiness.