Do You Love Yourself?
It is so cliche… You have to “love yourself” before you can… (fill in the blank here… find love… lose weight… be happy.) It is true, but what does it mean to “love yourself”?
Ways to Love Yourself
I like to think of love as a verb (an action), not a noun (a thing). Therefore, in order to “love yourself”, you have to take loving actions. Think about ways that you feel love from others: words of affirmation, a favor, thoughtful actions, support during trying times. Now imagine that you do those same things for yourself. Saying nice things to yourself, being compassionate with yourself, taking action for health, standing up for yourself.
How Loving Yourself can Change Your Life
If you consistently take actions that show love to yourself you will be happier and healthier. Consistent exercise and food choices, consistent positive self-talk and compassion. Self-love is not just an idea – something you either have or you don’t, but rather it is a series of actions that lead up to a feeling. So if you would like to build your self-esteem, learn to love yourself, and work toward a goal, start taking self-loving actions now.
If you would like more guidance on learning to love yourself, contact me, Kelly O’Donnell, at 314-643-8224.
