Tips for learning self-love

Self-love is not necessarily innate, but it can be learned. Here are some helpful tips on how you can learn self-love today:

1. Recognise how you feel

You have probably heard the cliché that "the first step to overcoming a problem is admitting that you have a problem". Well, one of the first steps to learning to love yourself is a similar one - it is to become aware of yourself.

We all feel a variety of emotions throughout our lives - sadness, anger, frustration, loneliness, happiness and more.

When something is wrong, it is important to take a moment to recognise how you are feeling at that moment and why.

Why are you sad? Why are you angry? Why are you happy?

With self-love, you need to be mindful so that you can begin to change any negative state associated with these feelings.

2. Accept how you feel

While there is nothing wrong with feeling any of the above or other emotions, it is important that you can accept your emotions once you have recognised them.

Whether you like it or not, the feeling is there. Take a moment to stop and dwell on that feeling.

Now scan your body to see where you feel it.

Look at your feelings from an outsider's perspective

How would you feel if you saw a loved one having the feeling you are experiencing at this moment? Then think about how you could encourage him or her to continue.

The funny thing about life and our brains is that we treat ourselves very differently from others. While we might try to force positive behaviour on our friend or family member who is experiencing a negative feeling, we would beat ourselves up for feeling that way.

Look at this situation with a kind eye and be kind to yourself. Love yourself in this moment and in all moments.

3. Forgive yourself

This tip for self-love actually has two points:

• First, decide what you need to do to forgive yourself, whatever the situation.
• Second: Make a conscious decision to forgive yourself.

We can be so hard on ourselves sometimes, but it is important to give yourself a break. You can sometimes be your own worst enemy.

If you think you have made a mistake, think about what you can do to make up for it in your eyes. Then encourage yourself through self-talk to take that step towards forgiveness.

4. Say no to others

Sometimes the practise of self-love is not just about being kind to ourselves when we feel certain emotions. It can also be about taking care of ourselves when others are around.

Set boundaries. Take time for yourself. It is okay to say "no" to others if you feel you need to. Love yourself enough to make the right decision for yourself, not for someone else.

Self-love is a continuous action, a continuous process, a continuous decision. You should constantly invest in yourself by working on things that will enhance your self-love.

Being able to self-love is not easy, it takes a lot of effort 😌

Reference: https://www.psychologicalhealthcare.com.au/blog/learn-how-to-self-love/

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