Years ago, I got one of our toddlers fully dressed and put them in front of the TV so I could get ready. When I returned, all their clothes were off. WTH? Then, I noticed that the segment on Sesame Street had little people getting dressed and undressed. The point of this story? Sometimes, just like my child, I benefit from seeing someone (who looks just like me) do something before I know that I can do it myself.

This Thanksgiving, I’m grateful for the women who’ve modeled self-care. The women who continually set an example of what it looks like to slow down, create healthy boundaries, speak up for myself, and follow my dreams. I went decades consumed with excuses as to why I couldn’t have the life I wanted for myself. One by one, in the kindest way possible, these trailblazers gently dispelled each and every one of those lies.

Now it’s my turn to set that example for the young women and men in my life. I can do that by taking care of my own needs, while also supporting them taking care of theirs. But, to be on the safe side, let’s all say a little prayer that my friends don’t start undressing in front of the TV—I’m such a believer now, I might join without hesitation. Hey, they got me this far!