Ebony values self-love and care because it helps her to be present for her two little boys. “When I look at my children I want to be better, and I want to be a role model for them,” she says, so Ebony makes a much needed self-investment in an effort to give them what they deserve. For example, every week she dedicates a few hours to working out at the gym, using this time to also pray, clear her mind, and release stress, “as there is very little quiet time in my life between work, my three-year old, and my six-month old,” she expresses. Embracing her workout hours as time to rejuvenate and refresh not only keeps her healthy, but balanced and centered during the week.

This beautiful Phoenix also carves out a moment every morning to read a daily affirmation. It’s as simple as a phone app download, and (voila!) she gets the day started in a positive direction. As a loving reminder, she makes sure to re-read the affirmation throughout the day, as being a very dedicated social worker can often be stressful. The words of encouragement are the positive push she needs to move forward with an optimistic spirit.

Ebony has made a very strong commitment to honoring her spiritual and physical well being, so she understands that self-love also means being surrounded with love and support from others. “I have become very selective of the people I allow in my inner circle, and those that aren’t in my best interest, I let go of.”

Ebony is most certainly a Phoenix rising – taking care of her mind, body, and spirit, practicing daily affirmations, committing herself to helping others, and showering her children with love. If that’s not enough, she’s investing in her career by starting graduate school this fall. Now, that’s the way to live a purpose-filled, self-loving life!

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.