Happy Valentine's Day! Whether you have a significant other or are spending this V-day solo, we want you to feel the love, not from another person but from yourself. Being kind, generous, and thoughtful are terrific ways to make your friends or partner feel special. You deserve the same treatment in return for yourself.
Have you analyzed how you treat yourself? Self-love is more than having a neat pulled-together appearance or scheduling a salon service. We're talking about the conversation that's going on in your head. Are you your biggest cheerleader or worst critic? If you said the latter, it's time to make a change.
How do you begin the journey of loving and being kind to yourself? Here are a few tips from Dr. Sharon Martin clinical psychotherapist:
- Set boundaries and say no when you need to
- Don't compare yourself to others. You're valuable just the way you are
- Focus on your strengths and use them
- Learn to forgive yourself
- Not everyone needs to like you, but you need to like you
The above tips were inspired by clinical psychotherapist Dr. Sharon Martin's article "How to Love Yourself: 22 Simple Ideas". Read her full article here to learn more about building self love and self esteem.
On the Mel Robbins Podcast - "How Do I Learn to Love Myself, Really?" Mel talks about the importance of accepting and liking yourself as you are. She notes that self-kindness and self-acceptance start with your internal dialogue. Make it a practice of telling yourself, "there's nothing wrong with me." It's ok to recognize areas you'd like to improve, but overall all learn to love yourself exactly as you are.
You subconsciously tell the world how to treat you based on how you treat yourself. Show yourself some love this Valentine's Day and every day. Can you think of anyone more deserving of love than you?