Deep down, we all know that life unfolds according to its own divine plan. But, despite this knowledge, many of us spend countless hours trying to micromanage the past and future. The truth is, these vain attempts to tighten our hold on life's reins only leave us tangled, frustrated, and disconnected from the present moment. The magic of life lies in the now, so isn't it time we start living there?

In my own journey from a place of frustration to one of freedom, I've learned the power of surrendering control. It's a lesson that, once fully embraced, can transform the way you engage with life. We all have pasts that may seem less than ideal and futures fraught with uncertainty, but that's the human experience. Our past mistakes and future fears don't define us. Only the present does.

In this intricate tapestry of life, every experience – good or bad – comes with a thread of silver lining. It's not always easy or even natural to spot this silver lining, especially when we're fixated on what we could have, should have, or would want. However, if anyone's hunting for the silver lining in their dark cloud, let me tell you, it's there in your present moment.

The journey of self-love begins the moment we choose to leave behind the strains of yesterday and the fears of tomorrow – and learn to live fully today. It's about acknowledging that everyone, including ourselves, is a work in progress. We aren't perfect, and that's okay. In fact, it's more than okay. It's human, it's real, and it's beautiful.

How many of us spend countless hours gazing in the mirror, critiquing every perceived flaw, or dwelling on every past misstep? Now, how many of us dedicate the same energy to celebrating our strengths, our victories, no matter how small they may seem? The sad thing is, I suspect the former far outweighs the latter. But why should it be this way?

Let's rewind back to my journey. I was once there too, lost in the labyrinth of self-doubt and self-critique. When I realized that this wasn't the life I wanted, I fell upon a life-altering epiphany – I needed to fall in love with the person I saw in the mirror. And so, I embarked on this journey of self-love, a journey that I extend an open invitation to each one of you.

Begin today. Stop controlling tomorrow or ruminating over yesterday. Celebrate who you are at this moment. Accept and love every imperfect, messy, and beautiful fraction of your being. By doing so, you are merely acknowledging the inherent humanity that lies within you. Embrace your vulnerabilities, your flaws, and your unique idiosyncrasies, for they weave the intricate tapestry of YOU.

This isn't a quick fix, nor is it supposed to be. It's a journey – a journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and love. It's about cultivating an inner peace that neither the scars of the past nor the worry of the future can touch.

Remember that friend who faced failure with grace, stood tall amid setbacks, and refocused on the present? He was practicing self-love. And, the motivational speaker who smiled through adversity and encouraged millions to do the same? She was practicing self-love. These aren't mythical heroes from a land far away. They are everyday people, like you and me.

Often, our harshest critic stares back at us in the mirror. So, let's turn that critic into our strongest advocate. Shield your inner self with resilience, fortitude, and unconditional love. Remember, the real measure of success is not how many peaks you reach, but how many valleys you've smiled through.

Take a deep breath, soak in the magic of this present moment, and repeat after me: “I am worth self-love. I am worth happiness. I am worth living fully, today and every day.” Now, believe it. Truly imbibe it. Because you are worth it – right here, right now, you are worth it, and your journey to self-love has only just begun.

Remember; You aren't just a face in the crowd. You're the artist painting the canvas of your life. So, whether you're a founder, an employee, a parent, a student, or whatever your role in life might be, start painting with love. Forget the cracks, they are not your reality. They're just ephemeral visitors that come and go. The love you carry within – that's your reality. So embrace it, own it, and start living it. Today. Now. This very moment. Love yourself NOW.