The saying goes, “Love others just as you love yourself” and there’s a very good reason as to why it’s as such. Many of us are guilty of being too harsh on ourselves and we often put the needs of others before our own. While it’s always important to care for people, it’s as important to care for yourself too.
When you love yourself unconditionally, you’ll discover that you’ll be able to care for others better. You’ll discover a deeper sense of joy and compassion as you sail through life.
The act of loving yourself is an important foundation to build in life because by doing so, you’ll be able to move forward in life no matter what the obstacles are. This foundation also teaches you resilience, whereby stress and anxiety will not shake you and this helps you to stand strong during any challenging time in life.
Though, learning to love yourself is not something that can be accomplished overnight. Just like any serious relationship that you’re committed to, a relationship with yourself is a lifelong journey of love too.
Be it if you’re just getting started in this relationship or have already begun a journey, these four important steps will inspire you to love yourself more and more each day.
Quote: The act of loving yourself is an important foundation to build in life because by doing so, you’ll be able to move forward in life no matter what the obstacles are.
#1 BE MINDFUL
Be mindful of what’s playing in your own mind. It’s always important to listen to your inner voice and at times, you could be torn between two voices that’s influencing your thoughts. Ever seen cartoons whereby an angel and a devil stands on each side of a character’s shoulder and tries to influence the character’s thoughts by whispering into his or her ear? Well, the same concept applies and this is why it’s important to be mindful. If any demeaning or negative thoughts appear, it’s crucial that you get rid of them immediately and channel your thoughts to more positive ones. Remember, you’re good enough and loving yourself is a journey of learning and just like any relationship, there is no space for negativity to dwell.
Quote: Take time off your schedule and clear your mind every now and then.
#2 CLEAR YOUR MIND’S DATABASE
Take time off your schedule and clear your mind every now and then. It’s easy to be influenced by the thoughts of others but the question is – do you really believe in them?
As you clear your mind, ask yourself the above question and if the answer is ‘no’, then clear that thought from your mind. Remember, it’s not wrong to take your own stand and you’ll find that by doing so, you will have better authority over your life and you’ll not allow others to dictate it easily.
It’s important to carry the beliefs and values that you stand for and not those of others. After all, why practice something that you do not believe in? At the same time, if your belief is not of great benefit in your life, you’ll also need to question yourself – why am I holding on to this belief?
Clearing your mind is also a way of getting to know yourself better and this is honestly one of the best ways to improve a relationship with yourself!
#3 PROTECT YOURSELF
Sometimes (or for some individuals, it’s most of the time), it’s more difficult to say ‘no’ than to agree to something even though you secretly disagree. People come and go in your life and that includes those whom you would label as ‘friends’ and it’s important to say ‘no’ or ‘goodbye’ to some of them if they’re toxic.
Friends are no doubt important but you have to be careful of toxic ones. Those that are constantly negative and have a bad influence in your life be it emotionally and/or physically. Sadly, there are people who take more pleasure in your pain than your happiness and these are the type of people that you would want to immediately get rid of in your life. Honestly, life’s too short to waste on people who would want to take away that glow of happiness from you. Once you learn to surround yourself with positive people, you’ll learn to love and respect yourself more. Remember, it’s not about what the world tells you. It’s more important to surround yourself with quality friends and family rather than quantity.
#4 INVEST IN ‘ME TIME’
It’s easy to get caught up with the demands of life and this could result in you forgetting about yourself. It’s always important to address your needs.
For example, nourish yourself with good activities and habits such as focusing on good nutrition, signing up for an activity that you love, having proper sleep and healthy relationships with those around you. ‘Me Time’ is not only about going to the spa or reading a book. If that’s not your cup of tea, opt for other options and it could be going on an adventure, travelling and just about anything that keeps you positive and healthy!
This investment is priceless as participating in these things also boosts your happiness level, self-esteem and ultimately, self-love.
It’s not others but only you have the capability to bring out the best version of yourself. Remind yourself every morning the minute you wake up, that you love yourself for who you are and you’re a strong and loving individual who is able to take on life, no matter what challenges it brings!
