The Goddess Lifestyle is all about living authentically in each area of our lives. In our Jewel of life system we call these different areas, the facets, to remind us that just like a precious jewel we are unique, beautifully flawed and multidimensional, all of which contributes to our overall brilliance.

Within each of these facets is a core lesson, known collectively as the Core Lessons of Self. These are lifelong processes that focus on positively raising the inner beliefs and feelings we hold about ourselves so that we can create a life we love.

The self is simultaneously the student and the teacher and it is often through the lens of the self that we can learn our most valuable lessons. Ones which help us grow and shine. By understanding ourselves we are able to understand others too, which helps us navigate the universe at large.

In their most basic teachings it’s easy to equate that feeling good within, improves our overall perception of life, which subsequently shapes our experiences. But when we begin to dig a little deeper, we discover that the ways in which we view ourselves is directly reflected back into our external worlds in a mirror like effect; as within, so without.

To illustrate this, below is a brief outline of the relationship with each of the Core Lessons of Self and their associated facets.

Self-acceptance is the core lesson in the facet of Spirit & Soul. The only way to truly be happy is to live life as authentically to our true self as possible. However, to honour who we really are means that we have to first learn to fully accept who we are (perceived) flaws and all.

Self-love is the core lesson in the facet of Love & Romance. It is only when we learn what it means to love ourselves unconditionally, that we have the capacity to do so for another. We understand the importance of showing love, appreciation and respect and we accept no less in return.

Self-worth is the core lesson in the facet of Money & Finance. Once we learn our true worth we will no longer settle for circumstances in our lives that undermine our value and block us from living an abundant life. As we begin to seek ways to support the life that we truly desire (whatever that means to us), we find that they begin to seek us.

Self-care is the core lesson in the facet of Health & Wellbeing. When we learn to prioritise taking care of ourselves on every level (mind, body and spirit), we increase our ability to feel good and function, which of course allows us to experience life in the best way possible.

Self-respect is the core lesson in the facet of Friends & Family. By learning to respect ourselves, we learn how to respect those around us. We also show our nearest and dearest the level of respect that we require from them, which then sets the standards to create healthy and happy relationships that thrive.

Self-motivation is the core lesson in the facet of Fun & Recreation. With all of life’s stresses it can sometimes be easy to forget to focus on the things that bring us joy, happiness and peace. When we learn how to motivate ourselves we can find the inspiration to seek and embrace these activities despite any challenges we may be facing.

Self-development is the core lesson in the facet of Career & Business. We will always be our biggest investment and by learning to develop ourselves we can grow our knowledge and skillset to support and propel us forward in our working life and beyond.

Self-preservation is the core lesson in the facet of Environment & Surroundings. Feeling safe is an innate desire within all of us, which is why our homes often provide us with sanctuary. However, we can’t ‘live’ there permanently. By learning to preserve and protect our energy we can prepare ourselves to cope with the stresses of the world regardless of where we are.

Self-awareness is the core lesson in the facet of Attitude & Gratitude. Our mindsets are powerful creators that shape our perceptions and experiences. When we learn to be aware of our own thoughts, feelings and beliefs then we can work towards creating a mindset that positively supports us in creating the life we desire.

Implementing the Core Lessons of Self

Working on the self is no easy task, but with the right framework and mindset it sure is a rewarding one. Below are some Goddess Guidelines to consider when working on the Core Lessons:

1. Commitment

When it comes to working on the self in any way, the first step is to really commit to it. If you’ve ever done any deep inner work before you’ll already know that it’s not an easy process, but by making a commitment to show up for yourself you are already taking a huge step on your journey. One of our biggest obstacles is our desire for instant ‘success’, but when it comes to working on the self there’s likely to be lots of challenges to overcome before you feel like you are really getting anywhere. The challenges are a natural part of growth and have so much to teach us, so remember to acknowledge that these are lifelong processes and that you’ll committed to be in it for the long haul, lessons, blessings and all!

2. Clarity

If you want to work on the self then you need to get really clear about what it is you are actually trying to achieve. A good place to start is to first identify what the root word of each of the lessons means to you. What would it mean to really encompass that quality and how would it change your life? Think about where in your life you already practice the lesson, and where it is missing. What can you learn from it and how can you currently enhance this in your life?

3. Courage

Working on the self isn’t easy, which is why so many people just won’t even go there. Let’s be real, facing ourselves (perceived) flaws and all is a scary process. Being open and honest with yourself about how you feel, where you are at and how you got there is the only way to really make changes within, but this can take immense courage to do so. In fact, whether you are just beginning your journey or you are deep into it, you are always going to need to find the courage to step up and do what needs to be done. After all, growth doesn’t happen in your comfort zone!

4. Consistency

Getting clarity and taking those first steps is great, but you really need to be taking consistent action if you want to see results long term. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all of the things you think you should be doing to improve your life, but the key to success is often in simplicity. It’s far better to take small but consistent steps on your journey and allow yourself the time and space you need to learn and implement, whilst still moving forward. Just remember to keep it simple and keep it moving.

5. Compassion

When you are doing any type of inner work it’s vital that you are kind to yourself. You’ll need to find a balance between having courage and having compassion, so that you can approach the process in a strong but loving way. You’re going to be your own coach and berating yourself isn’t exactly motivational is it, Goddess?! It’s important to remember that lessons of the self isn’t about self blame and shame, and so you need to learn to look to the past only for insight. This is about gaining a deeper understanding of yourself so that you can learn and grow, which will ultimately help you cultivate better experiences.

6. Change

Whether we like it or not, if there is one thing in life that we can be certain of then it’s change. For a lot of us change can be a scary and unsettling process, but if you’re going down the Goddess path you’re going to have to actively seek it, because you can’t have growth without it. Throughout our lives, we’re going to experience both internal and external changes which means that we need to learn to adapt. Just because you started doing something one way it doesn’t mean that you have to continue to do so. Don’t be afraid to change things if they are no longer working for you, embrace the new and see where it takes you.

7. Celebrate

These may be life long lessons but that doesn’t mean that there won’t be any significant and successful accomplishments along the way. Every step you take towards personal growth is an achievement and every lesson you learn (even when you feel like a failure) is a win, so remember to celebrate your journey often.