This weekend we celebrated my niece’s fourth birthday. The highlight of the event was watching the impromptu daddy-daughter dance performances starring her and her father. Their routines were set to songs from soundtracks of musical movies like Frozen and The Greatest Showman. What was most fascinating was that every move was a grand stunt. As he lifted her, flipped her, and spun her around, she played right into the drama by flipping her hair, pointing her toes, and holding her arms and legs in perfect poses.
Whenever he put her down to take a break, she would do a dramatic move or spin, then run right back to him, turning to lean against his shins with her arms outstretched. This fabulous freefall position was her indication that she was ready to take flight once more.
When her father became tired or dizzy, she remained relentless in her pursuit. If he tried to escape, she ran to find him, grabbed him by the hand and pulled him back to the dance floor.
Observing this enchanting interaction inspired me to synthesize what I saw into a few simple strategies that will support you as you lean toward what lifts you.
Embody Your Worth. We often hear the term, “Know your worth.” Most of us know our worth, but that doesn’t mean we make moves based on that knowing. Not once did she settle for a basic two-step. Every single move was magnificent. And lest he or anyone else forget her royal princess status, she didn’t have to say a word. She simply stood firm in her signature position which let her father know that it was time for her to be lifted again.
In the book, Successful Women Speak Differently, Valorie Burton talks about how much confidence we exude when we take a power stance. Picture how superheroes stand. Chin up, chest out, and hands on your hips.
How might you shift from knowing to showing your worth? In what physical ways can you embody your unique superpowers?
Take Unapologetic Action. My niece was not concerned with inconveniencing my brother. His exhaustion was not her problem. She was not worried about being too much or doing too much. She was focused on her goal which was getting to that feeling she felt when she was flying through the air in the safety of her father’s arms.
Too often we ruminate on the comfort of others and allow that to be a barrier to going after what we truly want. Their experience of the world is their responsibility.
In what ways will you release the need for someone else’s permission to show up as your whole self? What must be done simply because you want to do it?
Press for Your Yes. My niece did four costume changes. From princess dresses to cowboy boots, she reveled in what made her feel luxurious and alive. She demanded her space and time to shine. She had no problem allowing herself to be lifted, and when she wasn’t, she clearly and repeatedly communicated her request until her needs were met.
Getting to “Yes” means being unafraid to hear “no.” It means hearing “no” multiple times and not letting it stop you. “Yes” is not limited to the approval or agreement of others. It is equally important to say “Yes” to yourself again and again. Remember, sometimes saying “Yes” to yourself looks like asking for help and allowing others to lift you.
What lifts you up? Where have you been stuck or stagnant because you are avoiding hearing “no?” In what ways do you need to say “Yes” to yourself?
This week l challenge you to identify what lifts you and lean into that. A huge part of that means allowing yourself to be lifted. You don’t have to do it alone and you are not asking for too much. You are worth the fight for the flight that takes you closer to your light.
Manifestation Affirmations
I am light.
I am leaning toward what lifts me.
I am saying “Yes” to myself.
P.S. Click here to see a video of one of the dance performances starring my brother and my niece. Master Your Mindset to Manifest a Life You Love. Most Sincerely, Monica Marie Jones Your Soul Journey Guide