All About Self-Love

It's official, I'll survive another Valentine's Day as a single citizen. But, you know what? I am absolutely ok with that! Over the past few years, I've spent a lot of time working on myself—learning how to understand my emotions and how they dictate my actions, etc. and the past few months I have really buckled down in the physical-health department (something I've been ignoring for far too long). I'm happy to report that even though I've still got a long way to go, life has definitely improved because I have shown myself I care!

Over the years I've learned a few things about self-love, and how it can relate to our views on the world around us. I figured, what better day to sharea few of these these findings with you, than Valentine's Day—a day completely devoted to that four letter word—L.O.V.E.

Positive Self-Talk

I can attest to this, one-hundred percent. I have found myself (even recently) in times where my self-talk is more along the lines of self-bullying. If we tell ourselves negative stories, those will become our beliefs and turn into our actions (i.e. "I am fat" turned into overeating because I believed it). Once I realized what a destructive path that was, I began to tell myself more positive stories (i.e. "I am healthy" which resulted in better eating habits over time).

As time progressed it became easier, and my affirmations and positive self-talk became something I started to believe, which then dictated more positive and healthy actions. Even small things, like making fun of myself for making silly mistakes, made a difference. When I turned those instances into more positive self-talk moments, my self-love grew.

Improved Experiences

One thing that always held me back from finding a healthier me was the thought of deprivation, or FOMO. Once I realized that by becoming healthier, I would actually enjoy life and its experiences more, I was able to put my cravings and excuses away. There are still times when I'll let myself indulge a little (like when I actually ate a few of my friend's french fries for these photos—and they were delicious), but because my self-love has increased, so has my self-control.

Quality Time Alone

I know that sounds a bit like an oxymoron. But spending quality time with myself has been a huge mood-booster for me. Whether I'm taking a long drive while listening to my favorite songs, getting a manicure, or going for an evening walk (my favorite), my alone time has become healing. I am able to clear my head, find different perspectives, and talk myself through life's challenges.

Treating Myself

I've never been one to say "no" to shopping, but the less healthy I felt, the less I wanted to wear anything but loungewear, let alone leave the house. As I've made healthier decisions, I have treated myself to items I may have put off purchasing previously. The feeling of knowing they'll fit now and that I have worked hard to get to this point, is amazing, and has resulted in more physical confidence and an increased desire to improve/increase my social life.

earrings - Hull Heart sweater - H&M jeans - ASOS shoes - Nordstrom (similar)

So, happy Valentine's Day to us all—single, married, hopeful, doubtful, etc. Simply because you exist, entitles you to your own love and care—period. Make it a goal to show yourself some extra love today, and from here on out. Whether you're just starting your self-love journey, or you're already well on your way.