The bible says, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. And love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:30-21). However, in order to love others, you have to love yourself first.
As a people, we are constantly on the go. We are trying to keep up with the hustle and bustle of life. Many of us live to work or work to live. Then on top of that, we take care of our families, serve our communities, and still find time to make for our friends. Plus, we add things to our plates like school (for those seeking degrees), 2nd jobs, keeping up with our homes, and so much more. Unfortunately, when the dust settles, many times we are depleted, and we have nothing left to give. I know there are times when I feel like I have given so much of myself to other people and things and then I feel like my cup is empty and I have nothing to pour from. It is in these moments; I realize that I need something to pour into me.
This is why self-love is so important. Self-love is defined as “regard for one’s own well-being and happiness.” If we don’t take care ourselves, then how can we fully operate in our purpose and take care of the people we love the most?
Self-love can be so many things. Self-love means taking care of your body, mind, and spirit. To take care of your body, you have to exercise, get proper sleep, and put the right foods in your body. To take care of your mind means taking time to meditate, prioritizing your mental health, and being mindful of the energy you are taking in with the people you surround yourself with. Taking care of your mind also means setting boundaries with people (and even social media). Lastly, taking care of your spirit means focusing on your spiritual health and being one with God.
I want to mention the last few things that I find are important regarding self-love, which is to be kind to yourself, forgive yourself, and live intentionally each day!
“I learned a long time ago the wisest thing I can do is be on my own side.” Maya Angelou
- Here are some practical ways to self-love:
- Say something positive about yourself each day
- Move your body
- Laugh more
- Surround yourself with good people
- STOP comparing yourself
- Celebrate small wins
- Stop toxic relationships in your life
- Find your passion
- Practice mindfulness (yoga, meditation, breathing exercises)
- Right down what you are grateful for every day
- Learn to say NO
- Stop looking for approval from other people
Hopeful Insights 