Welcome to Cuídate, a space devoted to the art of slow, intentional living where stories pave the way for joy, mindfulness, grace, and a renewed sense of purpose.
I’m Josefina, the writer behind this platform. My heartfelt wish is that my words become honey to your soul, bringing sweetness and healing to your bones.
(Proverbs 16:24)
As a gift, here's a free bonus essay for all readers. Join the community to receive occasional free posts from me. Better yet, if my work tugs at your heartstrings and you crave access to more heartfelt essays and a supportive community, join the Cuídate Community Insiders. We’d love to have you here.
"I waited to collaborate with someone who never responded," I shared.
But I’m not waiting anymore, I’m going to do it with or without them.
I spent many years of my life waiting for approval.
Waiting for the approval of my parents.
Waiting for the approval of my creatives.
Waiting for the approval of loved ones.
Craving affirmations that faded as swiftly as they were spoken.
For so long I strived to find safety and shelter in other people that I became a stranger of my own heart. Neglecting my needs, dreams, and trauma for fleeting nods and smiles, sometimes met with more pain.
I dwelled in the sorrow of winter,
struggling to embrace the bloom of Spring.
Recently, as I excitedly shared an upcoming project with friends,
I found myself no longer waiting to hear a yes, but sharing my joy and excitement.
I no longer questioned my gifts and ideas, instead I shared with confidence
the way I am choosing to worship in this season.
In this refining season of my life.
I'm learning to choose healing and self-discovery.
In this refining season of my life.
I'm learning to choose healing and self-discovery.
I am learning to stop relying on others for validation,
and find rest in truth.
After thirty-two years of living for others,
I'm no longer seeking nods or praise,
but making space for growth and expansion.
I’m giving myself permission to heal on my terms. To live on purpose.
And to love the season I am in, even if it’s not in full bloom.
I am allowing myself to rest without guilt,
replenish without shame,
and create the life I've always envisioned.
Here's to reclaiming my joy,
reclaiming my creativity,
and reclaiming my faith.
Here’s to no longer waiting for validation,
No longer waiting for praise,
but creating my own permission slips along the way.
Finish the sentence and share with us “I give myself permission to”
Let’s take a moment to breathe deep and exhale together.
Inhale through the nose, and exhale with a deep sigh.
Listen: On Heavy Rotation
Lucky - Tish Hyman, Homage Simon
Reflect: Journal Prompts (Feel free to share in Comments)
- Do you struggle with seeking validation rather than going for it?
- What are you learning about yourself lately?
- How can you cultivate a sense of self-assurance?
Remember:
I am allowing myself to rest without guilt,
replenish without shame,
and create the life I've always envisioned.
FREE DOWNLOAD:
My tiny token of appreciation for your support. A permission slip template for you to grant yourself permission to do all the things you’ve been dreaming of.
Thank You for reading cuídate a monthly newsletter dedicated to the art of mindfulness where simplicity and slowness create space for joy, gentleness, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Here’s an opportunity to dig deeper.
Join me at my next workshop.
Reawaken Mindful Art + Writing Workshop
I give myself permission to try again. And again. And change my mind. And again.
I give myself permission to be "*not* optimal Cristal" for I'm showing up as best as I can in this season and that has to be enough.