Embracing Self Love

 Self Love

In a world that pushes us to be stronger, faster, and better. We often forget to love ourselves. We compare ourselves to others and let people's harsh words weigh heavy on us. Some trying desperately to fit in and others unhappy living a false life. But what if I told you there was a solution to everything? A way of living amongst the chaos without being affected by it? The key to everything you desire in within yourself already. You just need some help finding it, finding you..

True happiness and fulfillment lies in learning how to love yourself as you are. Learning self-love isn't always easy. It requires honesty, vulnerability, and willingness to confront the parts of us we may not be so fond of. This journey is worth taking, it is simply the best gift you can give yourself. I am currently on the path myself and already it has been rewarding. It hasn't always been smooth sailing, but I have reached goals I never thought were possible before. 

One of the first steps I personally took on this journey was challenging my inner dialogue. I used to have very negative self-talk and shifting that was a challenge for me. We all have an inner voice that likes to pick at our flaws and setbacks. It is important to recognize this voice is not our true self. It is a voice of ego and people who haunt us with words. So, when these thoughts came to my mind I replaced them with words of celebration to myself. Instead of "you aren't good enough to do that", it became "I can do anything I set my mind to and stick with". Slowly day by day, I began to be more positive about myself and my life. 

Something that helps tremendously with self-love is self-care. Naturally, when we take care of ourselves and nurture our bodies, our energy is restored as are our moods. Personally, I absolutely love to take bubble baths and read. Indulging into our comforts such as baths, massages, or even just walks in the park. Giving ourselves alone time and time to nurture ourselves is key to loving yourself. Sometimes it isn't as luxurious as treating yourself to a spa day. Sometimes it is doing the things we put off. I am guilty of not wanting to work out or exercise. However, it is extremely beneficial for creating positive changes to our self-image. Nourishing your body with healthy food and water creates a good relationship with yourself. Whether it's walking in the park, massages, or working out, doing things that nourish the body and soul has been crucial in cultivating self-love. 

The most transformative part of this journey has been learning to accept myself fully, flaws and all. It's easy to get caught up in striving for perfection. Truth is perfection is not real, it is an illusion. Every last one of us are imperfect beings, it is what makes us human. Embracing my imperfections has allowed me to let go of unrealistic expectations of myself. Accepting myself meant forgiving myself. I did the best that I could and there is nothing I can do to change the past. Once I accepted that and myself, I had a sense of peace I never knew before. 

Of course, this journey is an ongoing one. We are always changing and evolving into new versions of ourselves. Some days I struggle, not every day is filled with sunshine and rainbows. It is accepting that and knowing better days are coming that is important. Knowing a small setback isn't going to destroy you and that you can learn from it, turns you into a more powerful version of yourself. When you are fully sure of yourself and believe in yourself, no one can stop you!

Conclusion

If you are reading this, struggling to love yourself. I want you to know you are not alone, there are plenty of people struggling with this! Don't be ashamed and don't be scared to go outside your comfort zone. It is okay to take small steps and fumble along the way. What is important is that you are trying and you keep moving forwards, with kindness and compassion for yourself. Because at the end of the day, loving yourself is the greatest gift you can give yourself and the world.