Self-love is commonly fused or blended with self-care. Self-love is a state of appreciation for oneself that stems from actions that promote our physical, emotional, and spiritual growth. Self-love means having a high regard for your own well-being and happiness. Self-love is about feeling and accepting your emotions without labels. Self-love motivates us to make healthy choices, establish boundaries and cultivate healthy relationships. When we hold ourselves in high esteem, we are more likely to choose things that nurture us.
In the absence of self-love, we can become critical and fall into perfectionism. You may be more likely to tolerate mistreatment from others. You may also make unhealthy choices and self-sabotage. Self-love can be difficult to implement, it takes commitment to consistently practice self-love. Many people feel guilty for choosing themselves first. However, self-love is critical to happiness and growth. When we allow ourselves to rest and replenish, we become more present with those we love and care for.
Examples of Self-love:
Forgiving yourself for past mistakes
Letting go of anger
Realistic expectations
Accepting imperfections
Challenging yourself
Setting goals and making a plan to achieve them
Allow yourself to feel your feelings without labeling them as wrong
Give yourself permission to rest, to take breaks, and to have downtime
Remind yourself of your worth over and over
5 Ways to Develop Self-Love, and Why You Need To | Psychology Today
Danielle Kowach, LCSW