It’s February and love is in the air. You’re planning on wishing your significant other or having a Galentine’s day. But you know who you forgot about? You?

I know, you’ve heard it and it’s so cliché. But If we don’t have a good relationship with ourselves then we really can’t have a relationship with anyone else.

There was a time when I would share quotes about self-love and proclaim to have so much of it. Mostly, just to show others.

I tried all the things that I would hear to show myself love. Took myself out for dinner, spent time alone, took a bath, tried to meditate and so on. It just wasn’t simple as that.

I still couldn’t figure it out. I was just not getting this concept of self-love. Slowly, after too much time spent alone and a lot of pain. I can proudly tell you that I am mostly very appreciative of myself.

It’s a lifelong commitment. This Valentine’s day, I wanted to share some of my favorite ways to show myself love.

The easiest way to find out what you really enjoy in our modern world is to figure out things you’d still do if you couldn’t share it with anyone.

If you don’t take care of yourself then who will?

#1: Go on a special date with yourself (Maybe a day before or after Valentine’s day)

I know I mentioned earlier how dinner and movie date with myself wasn’t my thing. However, after spending some time with myself and understanding my emotions. I found out what works for me.

I love wandering around a city, just admiring the architecture. Maybe have coffee at a hip coffee shop with a little chocolate snack. These days I’ve really been in to Matcha lattes and any healthy sounding dessert (it’s still very delicious and it’s healthy)

I also like sitting in nature and putting my phone away. Just trying to hear the birds chirping, and listen to my heartbeat. Somehow, this makes me really appreciate myself.

Just appreciate how far you’ve come and that your body does all its functions at its best.

You can do whatever you feel like doing, as long as it’s alone and you like it. You’ll soon start to enjoy your own company.

 

 

#2: Have A Night Routine

I’ve been working on a morning routine, but honestly I’d rather have a night time routine.

Take care of yourself and pamper yourself. You deserve your love. Have a skincare routine at night and just take your time with it.

I promise it feels so good to do things for yourself. When you exfoliate or use an essential oil, it’s just extra special.

I like to make myself feel special by lighting a candle, turning on my humidifier. Just making myself feel appreciated.

Bonus points: Take care of your nutrition. You’ve gotta start with taking care of your outside and work your way to the inside.

 

#3: Get A Therapist 

This might be a little expensive but if you can afford it, please do it.

I know there is so much stigma around therapy but it’s one of the best investments I made. And no, you’re not crazy if you want to see a therapist.

I believe therapy is one the best self-discovery tools, you’re really a lot more complicated than you think. And once you understand where your feelings and emotions come from, you’ll be able to deal with them so much better.

The one reason why I’m so self-soothing is because I’ve been to many therapy sessions. It also comes in handy when consoling a friend.

If you can’t afford it, buy a self-help book. Stop thinking that there is something wrong with you, just focus on improving yourself. And maybe, start journaling without intention.

 

#4: Practice changing your inner dialogue

This is the most challenging one, but it’s possible. Once you start recognizing your self sabotaging or limiting talk, you can take control.

One thing to keep in mind, treat yourself like you would a good friend. What would you say to a good friend? Wouldn’t you lift her up if she was down on herself.

If she said “I’m not worth it”, would you put her even down or tell her the good things about her? Do it for yourself too.

There’s too many people who’ll doubt you and put you down. You shouldn’t be one of them. Be your friend. Be patient and loving towards yourself.

This came straight from my heart, I hope you found it useful. Self-love is a long and tough journey but it’s worth going on. You’re gonna spend the rest of your life with yourself, you’re responsible for making it better for yourself.