The art of care

It's time to love yourself

 Preface

''Get over the notion that you have

to be normal. It robs you of the
opportunity to be extraordinary."
Uta Hagen

Don't seek to be normal, seek to be extraordinary!

During your journey there will be obstacles, but don't be afraid to make
mistakes to achieve your goal. Know how to face the consequences and,
through improvement, you will grow even more.

Keep in mind that this is all part of the process. Let's remember the career
of Thomas Edison, inventor of the light bulb, for example. Dream and don't
abandon your goals due to problems along the way.

Carolina Evlyn
 Introduction

What does it mean to care? It is a deliberate action of care,

affection and care; It is the purest demonstration of love we can offer
someone.

In a world as connected as the one we live in, the essence of care has
been lost and superficial, selfish, cold and competitive interpersonal
relationships have come to the surface.

We are not here to compete, but to become a better version of

ourselves.
Immerse yourself with us in the wonderful universe that is you!
 What will we
learn?

05
Why take care of yourself?

11
Self-sabotage and the path to rebuilding

Adopt a growth mindset 15

Doubt your doubts 20

Keeping your mind, heart and soul healthy. 25

05

Why take care of yourself?

06

Because you deserve it! Looking at yourself with love is much more than
reading motivational phrases; It is a conscious act that you have a duty to
yourself and understand that your value is not linked to your position, your
social position, your assets, your diplomas, your labels... The list is long, but the
reality It's just that none of these define you. You exist and that is your true
value.

When something is exclusive, the market value goes up, right? Think for a
moment that there is only one like you. The only one with your qualities and
defects (the latter equally important, since they are your points of improvement
and are also part of who you are). Imagine if everyone were the same, we
would be in the middle of a scene from the movie “I, Robot” starring Will Smith.

God gave birth to him in his mother's womb. Your value is in God and He loves
Him so much that His Son died for love of you. When you understand who you
are, your identity crisis crumbles and what trapped you in the shame of fear
and the trauma of rejection becomes just scars. Invest in yourself and allow
yourself to show the world how good you are.
07

Whoever thinks that the exterior compensates for the interior is wrong, even
because a defective foundation damages an entire construction. Just as the
structure of a building is, it is extremely important that we build, in our inner
garden, solid foundations that provide us with support and support to withstand
the difficulties of our path.

Humans have become multitasking with technological advancements. Speed ​

and rapidity have also reached leisure and daily routines, leading us to put it
on autopilot and leave it on stand-by without fully understanding the reason for
our insecurities and frustrations when we have quality of life and individual
well-being. . .

Our main companion throughout life is ourselves and adopting this clinical look
at ourselves allows us to give new meaning to many things in our lives by
deconstructing and reconstructing, eliminating heavy baggage and replacing
it with burdens that we will consciously carry.

Letting go of excesses, eliminating what no longer works with the type of

person we want to build is part of this internal journey that we must undertake.
The search for self-knowledge must be deep, since staying on the surface does
not bring benefits, it only massages the problem and does not promote the
change we want to achieve.
08

How to practically apply self-care and expand your horizons to discover

yourself? Where to start? We've put together a list of some suggestions that
can help you in the self-discovery process. Let's get to them:

Keep a journal to record your thoughts, emotions, and reflections.

Disconnect from social media and technology for a few hours.

Try a new hobby or activity that piques your interest.

Take a day off just for you, without commitments or responsibilities.

Take care of your diet, opting for healthy and balanced meals.

Exercise regularly and choose an activity you enjoy.

Take time to read inspiring and informative books.

Make a daily gratitude list and be grateful for the positive things in your
life.
09

Practice gratitude through acts of kindness. Help others in some way.

Develop self-care habits such as taking care of your skin, hair or nails.
(Remember that you deserve care and attention).

Set healthy boundaries in your relationships and learn to say "yes"

and/or "no" when necessary.

Make a list of your achievements and skills, remembering your positive

qualities.

Challenge yourself to get out of your comfort zone and try new things.
Face your fears.

Practice empathy. Put yourself in other people's shoes and try to

understand their perspectives.

Take care of your physical needs, such as drinking enough water and
eating regularly.

Talk to a close friend about your feelings and concerns.

10

Practice forgiveness. Free yourself from resentment and seek inner

peace.

Maintain a healthy and positive social circle by surrounding yourself

with people who support you.

Take time to do activities that bring joy and fun to your life.

Cultivate a morning routine that includes moments of calm and

preparation for the day.

Practice compassion by being kind to yourself and others.

Connect with your spirituality through meditation books, devotionals and

prayers.

Learn to manage your time effectively and prioritize what is important

by setting limits.

Get involved in volunteering activities, helping others and contributing

to the community.

Tune out from negative news and look for inspiring and uplifting content.
11

Self-sabotage and the path to

rebuilding
12

Maybe you've already heard of imposter syndrome, but if not, a really fun way
to explain it is to exemplify it. Let's go there?

You may have already heard of that cartoon, "The Wacky Race," where the
iconic character is a rogue racer named Dick Dastardly and whose sidekick is
the dog Muttley.

Longing to win the big race, Dick finds himself unable to achieve victory on his
own merits and develop himself in search of solutions that will help him improve
his weaknesses. That's why he begins to focus on other runners, finding himself
at the crossroads of sabotaging them with crazy plans that always turn out to
be frustrated and that do not contribute anything positive to his trip.

That's how we are when we stop looking inward and focus on the view of the
neighbor's lawn. Having references is great, as it brings various opportunities
for reflection and stimulation, however, it brings to light our mode of
comparison, causing our actions and behaviors to be guided by limiting beliefs
and self-destructive thoughts, in addition to promoting a state of anxiety. ,
commiseration and lack of confidence.
13

But how to overcome this? Be open to change and dive deep into daily self-
discovery, stay focused on tracing the source of the problem and working
strategically to overcome it.

Human beings are very visual and have an incredible ability to communicate
and connect through art and writing to reinforce memories and eliminate
possible bottlenecks that harm their development.

Take paper and pen, write down your weaknesses or areas of improvement
and your virtues or strengths. After listing them, identify where those
weaknesses that have taken away your time and dreams come from, because
measuring them will help you channel your efforts effectively and transform
weaknesses into strengths.

The journey of self-knowledge is continuous, because we always need to have

a perspective and a sense of opportunity to be able to extract the benefits of
managing our life by becoming protagonists of our own story.
14

As you embark on the journey of personal reconstruction, it is important to

challenge your limiting concepts. We are often influenced by negative stories
we tell ourselves about our abilities and possibilities. By questioning these
beliefs and looking for evidence that contradicts them, we make room for
growth and expansion. Recognize your past achievements, remind yourself of
your talents and abilities, and replace them with positive affirmations that
drive your progress.

Preventing self-sabotage requires an ongoing commitment to yourself. As we

develop the self-understanding and support we need, we pave the way for a
transformative journey of rebuilding our self. Remember that it is a gradual
process and that each step is valuable. With perseverance and determination
you can achieve the most authentic and fulfilled version of yourself.

When we believe in our growth potential, we are less likely to self-sabotage

and more likely to persist and evolve. Be aware of self-destructive patterns of
behavior that are holding you back. By recognizing these patterns, we can
interrupt them and replace them with constructive actions. It is a continuous
process of internal observation and honest reflection.
15

Adopt a growth mindset

16
ixteen

Before understanding the path to rebuilding ourselves, we must understand its

opposite. The fixed mindset is that thought that “I've always done it this way,
why change?”

The first step towards the change of Spirit is the understanding that there will
always be transformations throughout life, there will always be a method to
carry out a certain task or practical action. This openness of perspective
allows us to create connections, live new experiences and development
opportunities.

We all have skills and potential to develop, but many times we stay stuck in an
idea that limits us when the intention is to expand our horizons, exchanging
disruptive and toxic habits for productive and healthy ones.

It is true that a good habit does not develop overnight. Everything that is
valuable takes time, it cannot be harvested before we sow the seed.
However, the act of launching ourselves is to challenge ourselves, to put into
practice what we have learned because opportunity needs to find us working.
17

Luck does not fall on our side and daily work exponentially increases the
potential chances of achieving success. Achievement comes from
understanding that failure is not the end, but rather a natural part of the
learning process and an opportunity to become stronger and more skilled.

It is the belief that our abilities and intelligence can be improved through
effort, practice and learning. When we adopt this mindset, we become more
resilient in the face of challenges and are more likely to seek opportunities for
evolution and development.

It involves embracing effort and perseverance. This means being willing to

step out of your comfort zone, face difficult challenges, and overcome
obstacles. Instead of stopping in the face of difficulties, see effort as a path
to personal development and achieving more significant results. Instead of
feeling threatened or discouraged by the opinions of others, the individual
begins to see feedback as an opportunity to learn and improve.

Being willing to listen to different perspectives, reflect on your strengths and

areas of improvement, and adjust your course accordingly requires practice,
self-discipline, and patience with yourself. It is normal for doubts and moments
of self-criticism to arise, but it is important not to give up. Remember that
personal growth is a gradual process and that each small step towards
development makes a difference.
18

Neuroplasticity is a fascinating and revolutionary phenomenon that is

interconnected with growth mindset; It is a science that shows us the
incredible capacity of the human brain to adapt and remodel itself
throughout life.

Previously, it was believed that the brain had a rigid and immutable structure,
where neuronal connections were fixed from birth. However, its discovery
challenges this view and reveals that the brain is a highly malleable organ
capable of creating new connections between neurons by reorganizing its
structure.

It occurs as a result of the interaction between our experiences, environment,

thoughts and emotions. When we learn something new, face a challenge, or
expose ourselves to new situations, our brain responds by generating new
synapses between neurons. These synapses become stronger with repetition
and training, creating more efficient neural circuits and facilitating the
transmission of information.

Just as strengthening the muscles of the body requires regular training,

strengthening the cognitive area of ​the brain requires active participation
and exposure to constant challenges. The more we participate in activities
that stimulate us, the more we reinforce this positive mentality of seeking
development and learning.
19

Additionally, neuroplasticity plays a crucial role in recovery from brain injuries.

After damage, the brain has the ability to reorganize itself to compensate for
the affected areas. Neighboring neurons can take over functions from
damaged neurons and new connections can form to avoid injured areas. This
rehabilitation process shows the adaptability of the human brain and its
ability to recover and seek alternative solutions.

Brain plasticity is not limited only to traumatic events. It is present in our daily
lives and in all aspects of our lives. From learning a new skill, such as playing a
musical instrument or speaking a new language, to developing new habits
and changing unwanted behaviors, by constantly being in action.

Understanding neuroplasticity has important implications in the field of

education. We now know that the brain is always ready to learn and that we
can improve our skills at any age. By adopting a growth mindset and
believing in the ability to develop our skills through effort and practice, we
pave the way for more effective learning and greater personal fulfillment.

Although it is a natural process, we can enhance it through specific strategies.

Stimulating the brain with challenges, cognitive exercises, and activities that
involve different senses can strengthen neural connections.
20

Doubt your doubts

21

It seems like a paradoxical statement, doesn't it? After all, doubts are intrinsic
to human nature. When we are faced with a question, it is natural that we look
for answers and seek information to support our decisions, however, there are
times when we become so immersed in this process that we end up getting
lost in a labyrinth of uncertainties.

We begin to question our own abilities, doubt our intuitions, and feel
paralyzed by the decisions we must make. At these times it is important to
remember that doubts are only part of the path, not the final destination. They
are like beacons that illuminate the crossroads of our journey, but they should
not be the reason why we stop moving forward. You need to trust yourself and
the knowledge acquired throughout your life.

Remember all the times you overcame challenges and all the achievements
you have achieved so far. You have a unique set of skills, experiences and
perspectives that allow you to make informed and assertive decisions.
22

Many times, doubt arises through a corrupt and tangled view of bad
suggestions from past bad experiences and unpleasant situations that
stimulate the fear to bravely dive into the sea of ​life's uncertainties and simply
allow yourself to try.

Idleness and commiseration should not be part of our vocabulary. We need to

recode our minds and confront our assumptions and complexes, because
when our psychology is bombarded with unfiltered questions, we tend to live
in a vicious cycle of denial and procrastination.

Believe that within you there is an inner wisdom that is often suffocated by
doubts and insecurities. Cultivate self-confidence, even in the face of
uncertainty. Keep in mind that making mistakes is part of the learning process
and that every doubt you face is an opportunity for personal growth.

Don't look at this as a weakness, but as a way to enrich your understanding of

the problem at hand. It is an invitation to a journey of self-knowledge and
self-development, so never let doubts stop you from exploring your full
potential.
23

Here is a list of toxic doubts we need to eliminate from our minds and new
doubts we can absorb to promote healthier, more constructive thinking.

Toxic doubts that must be eliminated:

"Will I ever be good enough?"

"Doesn't anyone care what I have to say?"

"Will I never be able to achieve my goals?"

"I have no talent or special abilities?"

"Don't I deserve to be happy?"

"Do I always end up making mistakes?"

"Am I born to suffer?"

"Am I not worthy of success or recognition?"

"Do things always go wrong for me?"

"I can not trust anyone?"

24

New doubts to absorb:

“What can I do today to get closer to my goals?”

"What are my virtues and how can I demonstrate them?"

"How can I learn and grow from my mistakes?"

"What are my main strengths and how can I use them?"

"How can I be kinder and more compassionate to myself and others?"

"What are the opportunities for growth and learning present in each
challenge?"

"How can I develop healthy and meaningful relationships?"

“What are the things I am grateful for today?”

"How can I develop confidence in myself and others?"

"What can I do to take better care of my physical and mental health?"

25

Keeping your mind, heart

and soul healthy.
26

In such a busy and demanding world, it is easy to lose balance between the
mind, heart and soul, however, taking care of these three fundamental aspects
of our existence is essential for a full and healthy life. It takes a conscious effort
to achieve a state of true well-being by nurturing and harmonizing these parts
of ourselves.

The mind, with its ability to reason and analyze, is a powerful instrument, but it
still often becomes a source of worry and anxiety. To keep a healthy mind it is
important to cultivate self-knowledge and awareness of the present. The
practice of eliminating excess will help calm agitated thoughts and cultivate
calmer thoughts.

Our brain is like a television receiver with several channels available to access.
Many times, when we face problems and frustrations, we tend to focus on toxic
channels such as anger, fear, anxiety... And we forget about our ability to take
control and change the channel.

It is essential to feed the mind with knowledge and learning, always seeking to
expand our skills and perspectives, since everything well-fed flourishes. What
thoughts have you had about your life and yourself?
27

The heart, the center of emotions and relationships, also requires attention and
care. Keeping your heart healthy means cultivating healthy and genuine
relationships, based on empathy, compassion and love. This involves setting
healthy boundaries, being authentic, and being open to forgiveness and
acceptance. Additionally, it is important to spend time on activities and
hobbies that bring us joy and pleasure, foster positive emotions, and find ways
to express our feelings in healthy ways.

The soul is the spiritual essence of each individual; the deepest core of our
existence and incorporeal part of the human being. Caring for the soul involves
nurturing our connection with the Creator. Finding meaningful purpose in our
lives and living according to our deepest values ​is also essential to keeping our
souls healthy.

When we are well, what happens externally does not interfere with our inner
peace. Think of your soul as a beautiful garden and work as a gardener of your
life, cultivating the Eternal within you. When we are rich in what money cannot
buy, we tend to be balanced, grateful, generous, happy and content.

The value of life lies in the simplicity of being, in the treatment and in the good
that does not emanate from ourselves, but is the grace and mercy of the Lord.
Just as He loves us, we must first show love to ourselves and then exude it to
others.
28

These are the wrong ways to take care of your mind, heart and soul:

Ignoring or repressing emotions instead of dealing with them.

Overloading yourself with work and not reserving time for rest and
leisure.

Socially isolate yourself and avoid meaningful interactions with others.

Constantly feed negative and self-critical thoughts.

Constantly seek external validation of self-esteem and happiness.

Neglecting proper nutrition, opting for unhealthy and harmful foods.

Avoid self-care and not give importance to basic personal needs.

Holding on to the past and not forgiving yourself or others.

Not seeking professional help when necessary, trying to face everything

alone.

Focusing excessively on worries and stress, neglecting the present

moment.
29

Smart ways to take care of your mind, heart and soul:

Practice self-compassion and accept yourself as you are with all your
imperfections.

Make time for self-care regularly by doing activities you enjoy.

Cultivate healthy, meaningful relationships by connecting with

supportive people.

Develop mindfulness and meditation practices to cultivate presence

and mindfulness.

Cultivate a positive mindset by practicing gratitude and focusing on

what is good in your life.

Seek to have a balanced and nutritious diet, taking care of your

physical body.

Set healthy boundaries and say "no" when necessary to protect your
time and energy.

Seek professional guidance when necessary for emotional support.

Cultivate creative and expressive activities, such as writing, painting, or

playing a musical instrument.

Prioritize adequate rest, quality sleep, and set aside time to relax and
recharge.
30

We have reached the end of this work that I loved writing, my dear reader. I
hope you have redefined many things and built a solid foundation within
yourself that will allow you to overcome the challenges that will arise in your
life.

We are human beings under construction, each new experience gives us the
opportunity to mature and become a better version of ourselves. May God
bless you and, from now on, allow yourself to look at yourself with less pressure
and with more love and affection.

You are beautiful, a true masterpiece created to shine, never forget it.

Hugs!
 Lucas Rodrigues ™

Personal Branding Solutions

Lucas Rodrigues lucas@rosp Lucas Rodrigues