This is Monique’s representation of the commitment she has made to put herself first. (Good for you. We love that.) Monique told us that over the past year she has come to appreciate “alone time” because these are moments that allow her to rejuvenate and prepare for the next day. She understands the importance of solace as it helps her concentrate on being happy, and she says, “I deserve to be happy.” And we totally agree, Monique!

She also has a daily affirmation that she reads to reconfirm her need to take time for herself: “Loving myself heals my life. I nourish my mind, body, and soul.”

Monique, you are definitely a Phoenix! Thank you for sharing how you love yourself first. Keep shining.

Happy Friday. Love yourself, fiercely!

Love Yourself First! Friday is a weekly self-love series created by the Phoenix Rising Collective. Beautiful, diverse women of color tell their stories of triumph, share their personal affirmations, and declare their love for their own lives! The series is meant to inspire and empower women to fiercely demonstrate self-love in action in order to build and sustain healthy, positive self-esteem.