Love Yourself This Valentine's Day
While it's wonderful to celebrate our loved ones on Valentine’s Day (and every day!), it's equally important to nurture the love we have for ourselves. This Valentine's Day, consider giving yourself the gift of self-love.
Self love vs self care
We often hear about self-care: rest, relaxation, healthy diets, exercise, etc. These practices are vital, but self-love goes deeper. Many self-care activities are outwardly visible, while self-love is an internal dialogue, a deep sense of self-acceptance.
Too often, we're our own harshest critics. We struggle with internal dialogues telling ourselves we are failures, critically judging our mistakes, comparing ourselves to others, and ruminating about our shortcomings. We self-impose expectations to achieve such high standards that, simply put, are impossible to achieve.
This type of inner dialogue is referred to as ‘negative self-talk.’ It is the enemy of self-love.
Correcting negative self-talk is possible
The good news? It is possible to change. Here's how:
1st – Recognize when it occurs.
2nd – Replace the negative thoughts with positive thoughts.
‘Every human being has flaws, not just me.’
‘My weakness will not define me.’
‘Others will not define me.’
‘I am worthy.’
‘I am enough.’
‘I made a mistake…everyone makes mistakes…I will learn from my mistakes.’
‘I deserve love, happiness, respect…’
3rd – Practice this every single day until the positive self-talk becomes a new habit.
Other ways to practice self-love include
- Setting healthy boundaries
- Communicating your needs
- Setting realistic goals
- Practicing self-care because you know and believe you deserve it
Seeking Support
Practicing self-love can be challenging, especially if past experiences have made it difficult. If deeply ingrained patterns of self-criticism feel impossible to overcome, Firelands offers counseling services to help. Taking the first step toward self-love is courageous. Call us at 567-867-HOPE (4673).
Firelands Counseling & Recovery Services
To learn more about our behavioral health treatment services click here
Services provided at Firelands Counseling & Recovery Services are funded in part by:
Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services Board of Erie County; Mental Health and Recovery Services Board of Seneca, Ottawa, Sandusky and Wyandot Counties; and The Huron County Board of Mental Health & Addiction Services.
