Does it feel easier to you to give than it does to receive?

Maybe you were taught (like I was) that it’s better to give than to receive, and that you’re a better person if you give more than you take for yourself. I was also taught that it’s selfish to want things for myself, especially when there were others in need.

For decades I carried a lot of deep guilt for wanting what I wanted. And I struggled to fully receiving generosity, kindness, compliments and gifts from others. Some part of me thought I didn’t deserve it. And another part feared what others would think of me if I did.

But, things have evolved over the years. Over time I’ve learned that…

Over-giving leads to resentment and burn-out.

Deprivation leads to bingeing and debauchery.

The fear of being judged leads to a lot of self-judgment.

Refusing to receive steals from others and withholds from myself.

I’ve also learned that…

It’s critical that I give to others from the over-flow of my cup.

My ability to receive is a reflection of my own sense of self-worth.

Receptivity is a very natural, necessary state.

The more I increase my capacity to receive, the more magical my world becomes.

SO, amidst this season of giving, I encourage you to practice receiving more.

When someone offers you a compliment, instead of brushing it off or trying to convince them that ‘it’s not a big deal’ or that ‘it’s nothing’, simply pause. Take in the kindness they are offering you in the form of words, let them sink in, and then say “Thank you” – from a place of genuine belief and gratitude.

When someone offers to help you – carry your groceries, hold the door open for you, wrap that gift for free, or anything that you would otherwise do by yourself (and with some extra effort, too) – take in the assistance they are offering to you. And before you can say “Oh no thanks. I’ve got it”, let the gesture and the offer sink in, and then say “I’d love that! Thank you!”

When you sit to eat a meal, share time with friends and loved ones, and even when you lay your head on your pillow at night, let yourself drink in the deep nourishment that is available to you. There is so much available to us in these moments, if only we will open ourselves up to it.

When you pause for a moment to get really present and be fulfilled, that’s when you know your cup is being replenished and your energy restored. And this, my dear, is what will prepare you to receive your best year yet!

With love and Transcendent Health,

Alicia

PS: It’s not too late to join me for the 13 Holy Nights – my annual end-of-the-year receiving practice. Click here to learn more and receive your eBook, short video and journal as my gift to you! Click here to learn more.