10 Ways to Build a Foundation of Self-Love

February can be a challenging month, especially with all the widespread celebrations about love. Candidly speaking, watching everyone else being in love can be a bit of a downer. But, before we get too caught up in other people's love stories, let's remember that we need to show ourselves some love too. It's easy to lose sight of the importance of self-love, but it’s crucial to shift our focus inward and recognize the significance of cherishing ourselves. Self-love is about recognizing your greatness, embracing your quirks, and having compassion for yourself. As Meredith Grey from the award-winning TV series Grey's Anatomy wisely puts it, "Choose me, Pick me, Love me." So, this Valentine's season, let's prioritize ourselves with the following 10 ways to practice self-love.

1. Practice Self-Care:

   Prioritize your well-being by engaging in activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Whether it's taking a bubble bath, going for a walk, or practicing mindfulness, self-care is a key element of self-love.

2. Set Boundaries:

   Learn to say no to things that drain your energy and compromise your well-being. Setting healthy boundaries helps you prioritize your needs and fosters a sense of self-respect.

3. Celebrate Achievements:

   Acknowledge and celebrate both big and small achievements. Recognizing your accomplishments, no matter how minor, reinforces a positive self-image. Celebrating yourself can look like a sweet treat, buying a new book, or even a movie night.

4. Positive Affirmations:

   Incorporate positive affirmations into your daily routine. Repeat affirmations that emphasize self-love, such as: "I am worthy," "I am enough," and "I love and appreciate myself." Saying these affirmations out loud and in the mirror can impact your self-confidence and self-love insurmountably.

5. Gratitude Practice:

   Cultivate gratitude by reflecting on the positive aspects of your life. Regularly express appreciation for yourself, acknowledging your strengths and the positive qualities that make you who you are. You can say these out loud or write them down in a journal.

6. Challenge Negative Thoughts:

   Challenge and reframe negative self-talk. Whenever you catch yourself thinking poorly about yourself, replace those thoughts with positive and affirming statements. For example instead of “I am so stupid” replace it with “I am intelligent and capable and always learning”.

7. Surround Yourself with Positivity:

   Build a supportive and positive social circle. Surrounding yourself with people who uplift and encourage you contributes to healthy self-esteem.

8. Forgive Yourself:

   Let go of past mistakes and forgive yourself for any perceived shortcomings. Understand that everyone makes mistakes, and these experiences contribute to personal growth. Allow yourself to make mistakes. Remember mistakes make you human.

9. Engage in Activities You Love:

   Invest time in activities that bring you joy and passion. Doing things you love fosters a sense of fulfillment and reinforces your connection with yourself. If you need to find new things to love, look for free classes in your community. There is always something going on! You could also sign up for the Ascent Mental Health Monthly Newsletter that highlights a few events going on in the community!

10. Self-Reflection and Acceptance:

    Embarking on a journey of self-reflection and acceptance is a profound undertaking. Start by acknowledging both your strengths and areas for growth, fostering compassion as you embrace yourself, flaws included. If self-acceptance proves challenging, practice envisioning someone you love extending a minor apology. Soften your heart and reassure them, then replicate this compassion towards yourself. Picture seeking forgiveness, soften your heart and open your arms to self-acceptance. Embrace every aspect, flaws and all, and reflect on the positive impact you've made, fostering personal growth and a deeper connection with your authentic self.

Let's make a conscious effort to prioritize ourselves this Valentine's season. The ten practices outlined above, from self-care and setting boundaries to celebrating achievements and engaging in activities we love, serve as a roadmap for fostering self-love. Each step contributes to a journey of personal growth and a more profound connection with our authentic selves. May this month be not just a celebration of external love but a profound exploration and affirmation of the love we extend to ourselves.

Love,

Ascent Mental Health