This morning, as I was driving to meet an old high school buddy for coffee, I turned on the latest episode of the Rich Roll podcast and was reminded of something that I connected with while in Arizona last week for the Integrated Wealth Advisor retreat.

The power of feeling loved.

The guest on the podcast shared that she grew up in a home where she always felt loved, which helped her develop a natural state of optimism and positivity. Hearing her discuss her natural state of mind resonated with me because I have always had an optimistic mindset and undefeatable confidence in my Self.

While in Arizona, we discussed our childhoods with our partners. I shared how I only have a few vivid childhood memories, but the one thing I definitely remember about my childhood was that I always knew I was loved, I always felt safe, and that my parents believed in me–the recipe for developing a mindset of optimism and positivity. I acknowledged to my partner that I know I’m lucky to have grown up in a home of love and support, and that many people don't.

Love is so underappreciated.

I think, deep down, we all understand how important it is to be loved and to love in return; however, it’s not a topic I hear many people talk about.

Especially, men; rarely do you hear men tell each other that they love each other.

I’m thankful for the men in my life whom I can share my love with and who return it. I’m also thankful that the circles I am beginning to find my way into also have more men embracing their masculinity while still being able to share their emotions and love with other men. We’ve been misled about what masculinity and femininity are all about, and this is where I think the importance and power of love has been lost.

With all the things that seem “wrong” in the world today, I see one easy fix.

It’s love.

If more people would love others for who they are, not for their beliefs, political parties, or any other differentiator that blocks love, the world would be a much more joyful, productive, and harmonious place.

But here’s the kicker–the ability to love others, especially those with differences of beliefs or opinions, is to first love your Self.

The easiest way to start sharing love is to start each day out telling your Self that you are going to choose love.

In your thoughts.

In your words.

In your actions.

No matter what happens throughout the day, your response will be rooted in love. Watch how, when you choose to give love to the world, you receive more love in return.

More love is the answer…for everything.

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See you tomorrow and keep pursuing,

JC