As Valentine’s Day (or as some cynics call it “Single Awareness Day”) quickly approaches, love seems to be everywhere. But is there love within yourself? The relationship you have with yourself is the most important one. Once you love yourself for who you truly are, you will attract love from others. So if you’re single, or even in a relationship, here are some ways that you can show yourself some love on Valentine’s Day, or any other day!
De-Clutter your life
When we keep things in our life that no longer serve us, it begins to weigh us down. Piled up magazines, clothes that we keep despite knowing we will likely never wear them, toxic relationships that are hanging on by a thread; these weigh us down both externally and internally. Look within yourself this Valentine’s Day and think about what no longer serves a purpose in your life. Get rid of that picture of your ex that you keep buried in your desk drawer. Donate those old clothes. Get rid of any physical item in your home that brings you negative energy. You deserve a space that relaxes you and brings you happiness, rather than stress. Don’t forget about the emotional baggage. What grudges are you holding? Are you still beating yourself up about not being _______ enough? Let it go! If you can’t find it in your heart to forgive those who have hurt you, acknowledge your pain but do not give it the power to affect your life anymore. Recognize that you are a human being and give yourself a break.
Pamper yourself
One of the best ways to demonstrate self-love is to take care of yourself. Completely pamper yourself by treating yourself to some well-deserved alone time. Put on your favorite music, take a hot bath or shower, and allow yourself to completely relax. Pour yourself a glass of wine (or whatever your poison of choice may be). Take the time to do your favorite self-care ritual. Whether it be painting your nails, moisturizing your skin or getting a massage, go for it! You deserve it, plus, you’ll feel great afterwards!
Do something you love
What are your hobbies? Think about the things that you wish you could do if you only had the time. Read that new book you’ve had your eye on or break out that camera and work on your photography skills. Do something that you truly love to do and get lost in the moment. For an extra confidence boost, do something that you love and are also good at.
Be kind to yourself
It’s easy to join the pity party when all your friends complain about their looks, relationship status, etc. While it makes you a great friend for listening to them, feel free to not join in. You are a human being with perfections and imperfections. Embrace your flaws because it’s part of what makes you you! So when your friend starts complaining about her hair, stop yourself before you begin complaining about something. Recognize that while you may not like all aspects of yourself, you love yourself enough to speak kindly of yourself. You would never dream of calling your friend fat, so why would you do that to yourself? Treat yourself as you would a friend. Your relationship with yourself is the most important one, so be sure to talk to yourself with compassion and love.
Write down all the things you love about yourself
Too often we focus on the things we want to change about ourselves when we should be focusing on what we love! Take a few minutes and jot down your favorite things about yourself. Be sure to not just include physical traits, but personality traits as well. It should say something like “I love my sensitivity, I love my arms, I love my sense of humor…” and so on.
Happy Valentines Day! You deserve all the love and happiness in the World!