So the weather’s getting colder, finals are getting closer and the happiness that used to come so easily might be in hiding somewhere deep inside our stressed out selves. But, fear not my beautiful friends because although things might be getting gloomy, I can guarantee you there is always a silver lining, always a bright side and always a reason to wake up in the morning and own exactly who you are. Here are seven of ’em.
1. You’re alive
Cliche, I know. It’s another “Be happy because you are alive,” claim but seriously though, after all the tragedies happening throughout the world lately it’s a lot easier to really put our lives into perspective and be thankful for what we have. Whenever you are carried away by thinking, or overwhelmed with negative emotions, take a moment to stop and listen to your body. Your heart is beating, your lungs are working, and every cell inside your body is simultaneously working together to be a catalyst to a healthy, working you. And how lucky is that?
2. You are unique
There is nobody in the world like you, and that is already something to be happy about. Do you have flaws? Sure. We all do, but allowing yourself to accept those flaws and really love yourself will make you appreciate your individual self much more. It will allow you to look through the lens of love and focus on your good qualities instead of ignoring them and obsessing over those few pounds you want to lose.
3. Self Love attracts love
We’ve all heard the quote, “Nobody will be able to love you until you are able to love yourself,” and although it seems like crap, the truth is that if you want love, especially from a romantic partner, your best shot in attracting someone willing to love you in all the ways you deserve is being able to love yourself in all the ways you deserve. Once you begin the process of accepting who you are, the love you have for yourself will radiate out of you and I promise, it will look attractive.
4. Self Love will help you see what you deserve
Often times in life, we put up with negative people in our lives just because it is comfortable. The more you love yourself, the less you’ll tolerate those who only bring you down or see you in a negative light. Loving yourself will put you in the limelight- making you the one to protect and guard your heart, and take the path to good vibes and doing things that make you feel good. This may seem selfish at first- but trust me, once you are happy with yourself you’ll be able to recognize the balance of yourself and others and will be able to adjust your life accordingly.
5. You will make healthier decisions
Once loving and caring about yourself becomes a regular routine, you’ll find yourself actually wanting to make healthier choices. The gym might become more of an attractive idea than it used to be, and you will probably just want to eat healthier and avoid that bag of chips.
6. It will improve your self-image
Once you view yourself through the eyes of love, your image will completely change. Parts of your body that you used to hate will become parts that you cherish because your perception of yourself will get better. It won’t be just physical things either, you’ll start noticing a major self esteem boost and you’ll grow all the confidence you need to follow your dreams.
7. You’ll have a forever friend
People come and go in life, and though my own personal journey of loving myself I have come to enjoy my own company. I love going for drives, hanging out in bookstores and even going for walks by myself. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy other people’s company, but the old me used to become so depressed when I was alone! You’ll always be there for yourself, and having the comfort of knowing that will make it all worthwhile.