The daring adventure of becoming your own best friend

This is the subtitle of the “madly in love with ME” book by Christine Arylo that I have recently ordered for myself and am thoroughly enjoying. I can see the enthusiasm may be too much for some, but I am starting a list of friends who may get something out of it (do let me know if you’d like to be on it). I fully agree that unless we love ourselves unconditionally, it’s hard not to love others without some kinds of conditions imposed. And there are times when I could be a whole lot kinder to myself – the author asks us to imagine a world where everyone goes an entire lifetime without comparing, judging or emotionally beating ourselves up – sounds fab to me!

Lots of what she says is jumping out at me, like “The best definition I’ve heard for intimacy is “into-see-me” as in letting someone see the truth of who you are, see deeply into your heart and soul” so has nothing to do with nudity and everything to do with lowering the walls we put up that stop us being close with others or ourselves.

Already I think the first dare is too much and I shall have to modify it – to dress up and go on a date with myself. But I like the thinking and so Saturday I may well dress up and make myself a candlelit dinner, and just hang out with myself. And she’s clear it’s not about “pampering” ourselves, it’s about always prioritising the most important relationship we will ever have – with ourselves.

I’m liking the book so much I’ll be surprised if this is the last you hear from me on it!