Episode 50: What I Learned from Three Unexpected (and Furry) Teachers

The 50th episode?!

In this episode, we explore the powerful shift from trying to fix ourselves to caring for ourselves. Drawing inspiration from lessons learned through caring for dogs, we discuss how nurturing our bodies—just as we nurture others—helps us build trust and love for ourselves, which is key to sustainable wellness. Discover how small acts of self-care can reduce frustration, foster trust, and cultivate a healthier, more compassionate relationship with yourself.

Summary I want to share a lesson I’ve been reflecting on, thanks to three unlikely teachers—my dog, my brother’s new puppy, and a client’s pet. These furry companions helped me see the powerful connection between caring for others and caring for ourselves.

It all started with my own dog. One morning, as he was being particularly needy—whining for attention, waking me up early, demanding food, and insisting on my constant care—I noticed something. Despite the frustration of these demands, my love for him was growing. The more I took care of his needs, the deeper my affection became. It hit me that the act of caring itself strengthens our bond with the things we care for.

Not long after, my brother adopted a new puppy, Otter. In the early stages of adjusting to pet ownership, he noticed the same thing: the more effort he put into caring for Otter—feeding him, walking him, getting him comfortable—the more he grew to love his new companion. It wasn’t just automatic affection; it was a bond built through care and effort.

Then a client shared a similar experience, realizing that when their dog wasn’t properly cared for—when it didn’t get enough walks, attention, or fresh air—the dog’s behavior worsened. The dog became more difficult to manage, just like how we feel when our basic needs aren’t being met. This client made the connection that when they don’t take care of themselves—by moving their body, getting enough sleep, and eating nourishing food—they also feel off balance and struggle more with challenges in life.

These three experiences came together to reveal a deeper truth: we love and respect the things we take care of. And that applies to ourselves as well. Often, we focus on correcting our ‘bad behaviors’—whether it’s overeating, being inactive, or feeling ‘lazy.’ We push ourselves harder, thinking we can force ourselves into better habits. But, like a child trying to shove a toy into the wrong-shaped hole, this approach often leads to more frustration.

Instead of pushing harder, we can approach change with self-compassion. Just as you care for a pet—making sure they’re fed, walked, and nurtured—you can do the same for yourself. Self-compassion means meeting your basic needs and treating yourself with kindness. It’s not about letting yourself off the hook; it’s about showing up for yourself every day with care.

The lesson is simple but powerful: if you want to love yourself and feel better in your body, start by caring for yourself. Move your body, manage your stress, get enough sleep, and nourish yourself. These are the building blocks of self-care, and they form the foundation for living a full, vibrant life. Just like you pay rent to have a roof over your head, you take care of your body to fully show up in your life.

Love and care are a package deal. So if you’re feeling stuck or being too hard on yourself, remember to start with compassion. Take care of yourself as you would a beloved pet, and you’ll find that self-love and well-being naturally follow.