When I first head of the idea of being kind to one's self a couple years back, I remember not being able to personally identify to it. Realistically, I don't think I had ever really been exposed to anything like it. At that point in time, I would only do "good" things for myself so as to avoid the "bad" things that would happen if I didn't.

As a consequence, earlier in my adulthood, I would often not listen to many of my own desires when making decisions; and when spending time with someone I loved, I would often choose to compromise myself, which was hardly sustainable.

Not too long ago however, I noticed that in my pursuit to being considerate to everyone, I wasn't considerate to myself, which didn't make sense, given that I am one of everyone! Funnily enough, I think this is how it clicked for me.

I also realized that different parts of me want different things: one wants a good career, one wants to play video games, one wants to relax and do nothing, one wants to exercise, etc. I think being kind to myself also means working on a compromise that works for each version of myself, kind of like an adult trying to put an end to a fight between a bunch of kids that don't know any better.