From the Desk of the Founder
My Story
For nearly thirty years, I’ve been pursuing one mission with my whole heart: helping individuals build healthy self-esteem. With over twenty years in education—and the unique opportunity to teach at every level—I’ve seen a lot, experienced even more, and walked beside countless students on their journeys of growth, struggle, and discovery.
Before my time in the classroom, I proudly served in the United States Navy. It was during those years that I learned the meaning of discipline, grit, and courage—qualities that have shaped not just my leadership, but my heart for serving others. That experience gave me the strength to push through challenges, to lead with empathy, and to commit fully to the work of transformation.
And what I’ve learned through every season is this: self-esteem doesn’t just exist. It’s built.
It doesn’t magically appear from within—it is shaped, formed, and nurtured through intentional care, guidance, and truth.
We often say, “They don’t have self-esteem” or “They need more confidence”—but where does that come from?
- It’s built through self-awareness—but what if a child doesn’t yet know who they are?
- It’s shaped by positive self-talk—but where are they taught how to speak kindly to themselves?
- It’s strengthened by a support system—but what if that system doesn’t exist?
These questions fueled something in me. After retirement from the classroom, I knew I wasn’t done teaching—I just needed to shift the setting. Loving Your You is the answer to a lifelong calling: to create safe, restorative spaces where individuals—regardless of age, background, or experience—can begin the powerful work of building self-esteem.
Through practical tools, mentoring, coaching, and digital content like Mirror Talk and The Loving Your YOU-niversity, we’re offering what so many need but rarely receive—permission and guidance to love who they are.
This isn’t just a youth thing.
It’s not a girl thing or a boy thing.
It’s not a race thing.
It’s a human thing.
I loved every minute of being a teacher. But this season—this calling—is about helping people not only know they’re enough, but to believe it, speak it, and live it out.
With deep purpose, unwavering belief, and the heart of a servant leader,
Lisa Shaw
Founder, Loving Your You
We’re Preparing the Ground for Purpose-Driven People
Interested in becoming a mentor, volunteer, or partner? We’re laying the foundation for impact, and opportunities to join our team will be available soon. Sign up below to stay in the loop!
Why Partner With Us?
– Donors enable us to deliver free and low-cost programming—like our “Positive Self-Talk” workshops and The Loving Your YOU-niversity sessions—that break cycles of self-doubt and foster healing.
– Corporate Partners amplify our impact through strategic collaborations, employee engagement, and community-driven change.
Your Support Makes Possible:
Safe, restorative spaces for personal growth
Evidence-based emotional wellness programs
Scalable resources that affirm self-worth
LYY has applied for 501(c)(3) status—pending approval, all contributions will be tax-deductible retroactively.
Join us in turning struggle into strength. Together, we don’t just speak life—we build futures where every person knows they are enough.
Invest today. Transform tomorrow.
To Parents & Guardians:
Empowering our children with the practice of positive self-talk is one of the most profound gifts you can offer—one that resonates across every stage of life. This practice isn’t just a fleeting moment of encouragement; it’s a lifelong tool that builds resilience, self-belief, and emotional strength.
Imagine a five-year-old, full of curiosity yet occasionally daunted by new experiences, learning to whisper affirmations like “I am brave” or “I can do this.” These simple phrases become the building blocks of their self-esteem, setting a foundation for a positive inner voice. Now consider a teenager, perhaps hesitating at the edge of a sports field or facing the complexities of social interactions, who finds courage in saying, “I am strong” or “I have what it takes.” And for a young adult navigating the ups and downs of life, these affirmations serve as a beacon of hope and perseverance, a reminder to keep moving forward even when challenges seem overwhelming.
By taking the time to sit with your child—whether it’s during moments of triumph or times of trial—you model the habit of self-compassion and resilience. This shared practice not only deepens your bond but also transforms self-talk into a collective family tool. It becomes a language of empowerment that you can pass on to siblings, friends, and even colleagues. When everyone in the family practices positive self-talk, they reinforce each other’s strengths and create an environment where vulnerability is met with unwavering support.
This daily habit, introduced early and nurtured over time, has the power to change how our children view themselves. It’s not just about saying kind words; it’s about reprogramming the inner dialogue to reflect possibility, courage, and determination. Whether it’s a five-year-old beginning to see their own worth, a teenager summoning the courage to participate and excel, or a young adult fighting to keep their dreams alive, positive self-talk is the key that unlocks their potential.
Let us commit to being the guiding light in our children’s lives by teaching them to harness the power of their words. Together, we can create a community where every individual—across all generations and genders—learns to believe in themselves, turning every challenge into an opportunity for growth and every day into a celebration of their unique strengths.
Lisa Shaw
Founder, Loving Your You