The Verdict Is In: Choosing Me Was the Best Decision I Ever Made
This blog shares Stephanie's journey of reclaiming her life by choosing herself after years of prioritizing others. Following emotional neglect and infidelity in her marriage, she realized the importance of self-care and set boundaries to rediscover her identity and happiness. Choosing oneself isn't selfish, even for mothers, as it leads to better emotional well-being for both themselves and their families. Inspired by this transformation, Stephanie created The Me Verdict to help other women embrace self-love, authenticity, and empowerment.
EMPOWERING STORIES
Stephanie K. Murray
2/13/20252 min read


For years, I put everyone else first. Their needs, their feelings, their happiness—all at the expense of my own. I thought that was what made me a good partner, a good mom, a good person. But somewhere along the way, I lost myself. I forgot who I was beyond the roles I played for others.
It wasn’t until I hit rock bottom that I realized something had to change. I was drained, overwhelmed, and felt like a shadow of the person I used to be. My husband offered little support during this time, leaving me to shoulder the emotional and practical burdens alone. To make matters worse, I discovered he had been unfaithful, further shattering the trust and foundation of our relationship. That’s when I made the hardest, most important decision of my life: I chose me.
Why Choosing Myself Felt So Wrong (At First)
Let’s be honest—we’re often taught that putting ourselves first is selfish. Society tells us that being a “good” woman means being selfless, sacrificing our own needs for the sake of others. So, when I started setting boundaries and prioritizing my well-being, I felt guilty. I worried that I was letting people down.
But here’s what I learned: choosing yourself isn’t selfish. It’s necessary. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and I was running on fumes for far too long. Taking care of yourself allows you to be the best version of you—not just for yourself, but for your children as well. When you’re emotionally and mentally fulfilled, you’re better equipped to nurture and support those who rely on you.
The Power of Taking Back Control
When I finally decided to prioritize my own happiness, everything changed. I started listening to my own needs, honoring my feelings, and making decisions that aligned with my values. It wasn’t about shutting people out—it was about creating space for myself to heal and grow.
I rediscovered passions I’d long forgotten, like writing and animals. I found joy in the little things again—a quiet morning coffee, a walk in nature, the freedom to dream about the life I truly wanted. And most importantly, I began to see my worth, not through someone else’s eyes, but through my own.
**The Birth of **The Me Verdict
This journey of self-discovery and empowerment is what inspired me to create The Me Verdict. The name itself is a reflection of that pivotal decision—the moment I finally chose me. It’s a declaration that we all deserve to put ourselves first, to reclaim our lives, and to step confidently into our own power.
The Me Verdict isn’t just about my story; it’s about creating a space for every woman who’s ready to make that same decision. It’s for the women who are tired of feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or lost, and who are ready to embrace self-love and authenticity.
Your Verdict Awaits
If you’re reading this and feeling like you’re at a crossroads, I want you to know that it’s okay to choose yourself. In fact, it might be the best decision you ever make. You deserve to live a life that lights you up, to feel fulfilled and joyful, and to know that your happiness matters.
So, let me ask you: What’s one way you can choose you today? Because the verdict is in: choosing you is always the right choice.
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