Radical self-care
"Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare." - Audre Lorde
Audre Lorde, a self-described “black, lesbian, mother, warrior, poet,” challenges the notion that self-care is a luxury or act of selfishness. She frames it as a necessary strategy for survival, particularly for marginalized communities.
Personality insights
The quote speaks volumes about the critical role self-care plays in maintaining one's psychological well-being, and how it can be a radical act of empowerment. By preserving oneself, one is better positioned to face societal challenges.
Big-Five traits perspectives
This statement aligns with "Emotion Regulation" under Emotional Stability, as well as "Tender-mindedness" within Agreeableness, advocating for understanding and caring for oneself to better navigate the world.
Jungian typological perspectives
This viewpoint aligns well with introverted Feeling, focused on internal emotional states and values. The quote also underlines the concept of individuation, acknowledging that personal well-being is inherently linked with greater societal structures.
Autonomous approval
"It’s not your job to like me—it’s mine." - Byron Katie
Byron Katie, an American speaker, and author, turns the usual expectation of gaining approval on its head, asserting that self-acceptance is a personal responsibility.
Personality insights
Katie's words delve into the notion of self-worth, implying that looking outside for validation is a misplaced endeavor. Instead, it underscores that self-approval is the most valuable form of recognition.
Big-Five traits perspectives
The quote speaks directly to "Self-efficacy" under Conscientiousness, and also aligns with the "Assertiveness" sub-domain of Extraversion. It implies a proactive approach to defining one's own identity.
Jungian typological perspectives
Introverted Feeling is again in focus here, emphasizing the need for inner alignment over external validation. The quote might also relate to Thinking functions that evaluate situations objectively, focusing on internal responsibility rather than external expectation.
Steps to self
"The first step toward change is awareness. The second step is acceptance." - Nathaniel Branden
Nathaniel Branden, a psychotherapist and writer known for his work in the psychology of self-esteem, pinpoints awareness and acceptance as crucial stages in the journey towards self-improvement.
Personality insights
Branden illuminates the transformative power of self-awareness and acceptance. Before any change can happen, one needs to recognize and then embrace the current state of affairs.
Big-Five traits perspectives
This quote relates to "Openness to Experience," especially the "Intellect" and "Imagination" sub-domains, which emphasize mental flexibility and open-mindedness. Additionally, it aligns with "Emotion Regulation" under Emotional Stability.
Jungian typological perspectives
Introverted Intuition might find a home in Branden’s words, as this function is often concerned with the unconscious mind's insights. It also touches on the broader Jungian theme of individuation, where awareness and acceptance are steps toward becoming a whole person.
