Loving Yourself

One of the hardest things we can aim for in this life is self love. Many people are afraid to show love, kindness, care, and compassion to themselves because they feel it will turn them into an egotistical or careless individual. The truth is, however, that in order for us to love other and care for them fully, we must first learn to love ourselves.

Self love comes in many important forms...

• Ensuring our physical health is good
• Ensuring our mental and emotional health is good
• Honoring our need to care for our spirit
• Taking rests and breaks when needed
• Being willing to let others help us, and asking for that help when we need it
• Making positive changes in our life
• Creating healthy boundaries for ourselves
• Taking time to gift ourselves and reward a job well done

Many of us get caught up in thinking that to give to ourselves is to deprive others of good things. We forget that if we are not in a state of health, balance, and empowerment, we simply will not be strong enough or resourceful enough to do even the smallest thing for another person!

When you feel tired, stressed out, burned out, or just plain listless, it's a good sign that you need to take the time to show yourself some loving kindness. You can go as far as a massage and a treat or go as simple as making sure you eat great meals for the next few days to fuel your body and mind. No matter what you do, know that by caring for yourself will ultimately enable you to care for those you love.