Self-love is self appreciation, gratification, and confidence in yourself! The most important component of self-love, in my opinion, is self-worth. The key to self-love is not looking for love in the form of things or people. This unique love comes from within. Many times we (including myself because I am guilty of it) look to others to satisfy us and when we lose that person or thing that was giving us satisfaction, we lose ourselves in the midst of it. When you truly love yourself, it is not people or things that give you such satisfaction. Honestly, I began my self-love journey after seeing multiple Twitter threads from Reyna Biddy and Malanda. People may not believe that a social media account will make you realize how much you lack, but it did. Many times I came across quotes and would just cry. I would cry because I knew I deserved better than what I was allowing in my life. Thus, I made an agreement with myself that I would go on this journey of self-love! I began with reading the Bible and reading devotionals. Now, I am reading self-love and happiness books that encourage me along the way. This is for those of you who have not quite yet reached your full potential but are willing to do the work to achieve it! I hope that you all are able to find yourself and understand your worth. Here are my tips for the journey to self-love:
1. Take some time for yourself.
Whether it’s once a week, once a month, or whenever you have time, make sure you have a day dedicated to yourself. Often times people get so wrapped up in their relationships, classes, jobs, etc. and forget that in order to give your all to these things, you must be whole.
One of my close friends has “Self-love Sundays” where she treats her mind, body, and spirit. Her activities may include reading a new book, getting her nails done, treating herself to a movie, or simply cleaning and preparing for the upcoming week. I recommend you figuring out what makes your body and spirit feel good and take that day to do just that!
2. READ!
I am quite active on Twitter and many times I come across pictures of quotes. These quotes always seem to make me realize how much I need to work on my self-esteem and love myself better. Instead of just reading the quotes and carrying along, I chose to read the books the quotes came from and actually put action towards bettering myself. These are books that I am planning to read, currently reading and/or have already read.
3. Personal Mantra
Make daily affirmations. Create a personal motivational statement that reassures you daily. An example would be “I am capable. I will achieve ANYTHING. I am beautiful.” This mantra is personal to you and your goals. I love to wake up and say my mantra after my morning prayer. This way I feel ready and energized to conquer my day!
4. 100happydays challenge
Another one of my close friends introduced me to the 100happydays challenge! The question it poses is “Can you be happy for 100 days in a row?” You document your experience daily through pictures of what made you happy! It is not a contest but it challenges you to find your true happiness and live a more intentional life. I will be starting this challenge soon! You will find more information about it HERE.
Remember, the journey to self-love is not easy, but it is worth it. Take this journey with me and lets work together to always put ourselves first.
SabriaJones 