Welcome to our Marriage War and Peace blog for April! 

As wives, mothers, and caregivers, we are often conditioned to be the givers in our 
families—nurturing, supporting, and pouring love into everyone else 

Giving comes naturally. But receiving? That can feel awkward, even uncomfortable. The instinct to dismiss compliments, refuse help, or downplay our own needs is deeply ingrained. Yet, embracing the art of receiving is just as important as giving. It allows us to restore our energy, strengthen our relationships, and experience the fullness of love in all its forms. 

Learning to say yes—to support, kindness, and even simple pleasures—doesn’t mean we are weak or needy. It means we are open to balance, replenishment, and connection. When we receive with grace, we honor not just ourselves but also those who wish to give to us.  

This month let’s explore how saying yes more often can lead to a life of deeper joy, love, and fulfillment, and a sense of control and balance in our lives. 

In this month’s article, we’ll focus on: 

• My journey to receiving 

• 6 practical ways to embrace receiving 

• The power of receiving
   

 
My Journey to Receiving
 

For most of my life, I thought of myself as a devoted, capable, self-reliant giver.  

Giving made me feel safe, worthy, and needed. But somewhere along the way, I unknowingly picked up the belief that I had to earn love, work for acceptance, and prove my value through doing and giving. Asking for help felt like a weakness. Receiving felt like a risk that might lead to rejection or abandonment. 

So, I gave. And gave. And gave. 

I became the world’s most generous giver—but what I was really doing was repelling anything that looked like receiving. Compliments made me squirm. When others asked me if they could help, I always said, “No, I’ve got it.” Deep down, I felt guilty, even ashamed, if I accepted anything without giving something back. 

However, this pattern of giving without receiving took a toll. Silently, over time, it fed cycles of anxiety, loneliness, and depression. It wasn’t until I became a mother that a significant shift occurred within me. I realized that if I wanted my daughter to grow up empowered and confident, I had to model that for her. And true empowerment, I learned, includes the courage to receive. 

With the guidance of a coach, I began dismantling those old thought patterns. Like a toddler learning to walk, I took small, steady steps towards receiving—starting with acknowledging myself. I granted myself grace. I allowed myself rest. Gradually, I became more receptive to love, kindness, support, and mentorship from others. 

Now, receiving is an integral part of my daily life. It brings me joy, connection, and a sense of wholeness I never knew I was missing. Saying yes to help, love, and being vulnerable is not a sign of weakness. It’s a testament to my strength, a source of healing, and a gateway to freedom.
 

 
Practical Ways to Embrace Receiving 

If receiving feels unfamiliar or uncomfortable, start with small shifts in your mindset and daily habits. Here are six ways you can practice the art of receiving:
 

1. Accept Compliments Graciously
   
   How often do you brush off a compliment with, “Oh, it was nothing” or “I just got lucky”? Instead of deflecting, say thank you. Allow yourself to receive kind words fully and acknowledge your worth.
    

2. Say Yes to Help
   
   When someone offers to help, whether it’s your spouse taking over dinner, a friend lending a hand, or someone carrying a heavy bag, saying yes not only relieves you but also brings joy to the giver. 
    

3. Prioritize Self-Care Without Guilt
    

Receiving isn’t just about accepting help from others; it’s about saying yes to your needs. Prioritizing self-care, whether it's scheduling a massage, taking a nap, or enjoying a quiet cup of coffee, is a way of acknowledging your worth and importance. Your well-being matters, and it's okay to put yourself first sometimes.
 

4. Ask for What You Need
   
   Often, we assume our loved ones should just know what we need. But the truth is, communication is key. If you need a break, ask for it. If you desire more affection or appreciation, express it. Receiving starts with allowing yourself to voice your needs.
    

5. Embrace Emotional Support
   
   Vulnerability is a form of receiving. Instead of always being strong, allow yourself to lean on others emotionally. Let yourself be supported, whether it’s a deep conversation with your spouse or sharing with a close friend.
    

6. Allow Yourself to Be Acknowledged
   
   Let yourself be acknowledged, whether it’s a birthday, an anniversary, or an accomplishment. Too often, we downplay our successes. Accepting love and recognition deepens your sense of self-worth and connection with others. 

 
Learning to receive is an ongoing practice, but the more you do it, the more natural it becomes.  

By allowing yourself to accept love, kindness, and support, you cultivate balance in your relationships and allow others to show their care for you. Start small, say yes more often, and notice how opening yourself up to receiving can bring more joy, connection, and fulfillment into your life.

Helpful Resources 

Consider reading The Power of Receiving: A Revolutionary Approach to Giving Yourself the Life You Want and Deserve by Amanda Owen. This book explores the idea that receiving isn’t selfish—it’s an essential part of a balanced life. 

Owen provides practical strategies for shifting our mindset, breaking free from the belief that we must always be the giver, and allowing ourselves to embrace abundance in all forms. 
 

Share Your Insights
 

The art of receiving isn't about taking more—it's about allowing love, support, and kindness to flow both ways.  

When we say yes to help, compliments, and care, we open ourselves to a richer, more fulfilling life. This April, challenge yourself to receive with as much grace and gratitude as you give. You deserve it. 

We'd love to hear from you! What's one way you're practicing the art of receiving? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation!