Society tells women "don't make it personal," to leave the emotions out of the office and to "be professional". As a millennial, I've been told this many times. However, after my 22 years of life, I have to disagree with this ideal. I've always struggled with this concept until I realized it's not something to view as a struggle, rather a strength.
I've been told by multiple people in my life that I'm "too emotional" and make things "personal". I've been told that I worry too much about everyone else, followed by tips to improve this "flaw" in myself. Not everyone is going to appreciate the empathy you embody, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't practice it. Here are 3 reasons you should continue to make it "personal".
1. The girl who makes it personal possesses an innate sense of empathy that's hard to come by and should never be suppressed.
Caring about and for others is not a flaw. Don't let someone tell you otherwise. Take pride in your emotional availability to empathize with others. Loving others is NOT a flaw. Having a heart that naturally cares for people is something you should showcase every single day. Without hesitation, give your love, empathy and forgiveness as if it were limitless.
2. It's contagious.
Showing people you care will create a chain reaction. Humans are made for intimacy, community and love. Show others how you love them by asking how they're doing. Let them cry, hug and need you. Let them lean on so others can lean on them. Inspire them to mend their brokenness so they can inspire others. They will feel the love radiate from you and that will inspire them. People want to be heard and appreciated. Show people you appreciate them without question.
3. Go above and beyond for people.
It's hard and time-consuming but why not? Caring for others is always going to be more emotionally draining than not. Not only are you having to control your own emotions in relation to your thoughts, stresses and worries but you also are worrying, stressing and thinking about those you care about. Do the little things to show them how you understand them.
Send your love and appreciation in the form of cookies and the encouraging text message. These things take more time but wear your heart on your sleeve, show them you care. Do the little things to make a big impact on their day.
Be the girl who makes it personal. Be the girl who makes loving less complicated. Be the girl who cares, who's genuine in her intentions. Show people how to love well. Don't be ashamed to be concerned or emotionally drained at the end of the day. You hold your head high and know that people appreciate you for being your "emotional" self, know they appreciate that they can lean o your for support and advice.
There is something so empowering about caring, loving and appreciating fellow humans. At the end of my life, I know I want to be remembered for loving others well in a society that holds higher value in self-progression.
