Show notes
Self-Love Starts with Putting Yourself First Without GuiltMichelle Denson introduces a Collected Identity podcast episode focused on self-love, a topic she plans to develop across future episodes and a forthcoming fall program. She reframes love as balanced acceptance of both positive and negative attributes, using examples of unconditional love for children or pets and linking this to universal balance and opposing forces, including reactions to public social media posts. She explains that self-love is not ego or selfishness and is distinct from self-care, arguing that real change requires prioritizing oneself so you can give to others without “pouring from an empty cup.” Drawing from her experience in early motherhood—feeling drained, reactive, and out of balance—she offers a simple actionable tool: saying “After I…” (or “Hold on”) to meet a small personal need before responding to others, and using pushback as a signal to recalibrate priorities.00:00 Welcome and Updates01:21 What Self Love Means02:20 Love and Balance Laws08:30 Accepting Your Shadows10:51 Motherhood Empty Cup14:22 After I Tool26:14 Self Care vs Self Love27:46 Make It a Daily Habit33:16 Closing Encouragement