Self-Love

What does self-love mean to you? I know this saying has been getting thrown around a lot lately, but what does it actually entail? It can mean something totally different to each person you talk to. There are so many amazing ways we can practice self-love in our daily lives. If you feel confused on where or how to start your self-love journey, I’ve put together a list of 5 things I exercise on the daily to help you get started.

Get in the habit of creating alone time. Try setting aside a few minutes a day to focus only on yourself. I know it may be difficult at first but try to unplug and relax. Self-pampering yourself for even 15 minutes a day, will not only leave you feeling refreshed, but it will improve your overall happiness. Take time to be grateful for your health, your body, your friends, and for just being alive. Curl up with a good book, enjoy a glass of wine with your thoughts, take a relaxing bubble bath or maybe even go for a run. Creating time for yourself is the first step in self-love.  

Learn to love yourself. It’s impossible to give to others, if you’re unhappy with who you are. Believe in yourself, find good in your flaws and don’t be afraid to fail. Practice telling yourself one positive attribute that you love about yourself on the daily. Recognize that love is all around you, you just have to open your eyes long enough to see it. You are worth it and deserve to be happy. Try not to focus on the negative, and yet focus on the things that bring you the most joy.     

Step away from social media. Or at least, try not to compare yourself to others. I know this is an extremely hard one. Browsing Instagram not only leaves us feeling inspired, but it can also leave us with self-doubt. Why aren’t we rocking the latest handbag, why aren’t we on that fancy trip, why doesn’t our skin look as pretty as someone else’s, the list goes on. Next time you’re online, remember that we’re all special and unique in our own way, and that’s what makes us wonderful. Try not to feel bad about the things you don’t have, the accomplishments you haven’t fulfilled yet, or the goals you haven’t met yet. You are truly beautiful just the way you are.

Surround yourself with people that raise you up. It’s been proven that if you surround yourself with people that inspire, support and love you, you’ll not only be happier, but you’ll achieve greatness. Building a strong community that can help you stay motivated and on track, will allow you to conquer your life goals. Although we may think we can do everything ourselves, we actually need a shoulder to lean on every once in awhile. Since positive energy is contagious, it’s important to have a network of likeminded friends. Look for people that value you and hype you up.

High self-esteem and self-love go hand-in-hand. Participate in a hobby that you’re good at, share your knowledge with someone in the same industry as you or even cook your favourite dish for a loved one. Showing off one of your talents or skills is an immediate self-esteem booster. It raises your endorphins, allowing you to instantly feel good about yourself. It brings out the best version of you that you can be, while giving back to others.

What I Wore- Tee- Forever 21, Sunglasses- c/o Zero UV, Purse- c/o Poppy & Peonies, Watch- c/o Medium Watches, Tutu Skirt- c/o Chavah Designs, Booties- Target