When first learning the concept of loving myself many years ago and hearing that it would benefit my physical, mental, and spiritual health I didn’t understand how this would work. I thought, how is this possible, where and in what way would I begin? I admit this was not my way of thinking or living. After considering this, and learning more about how to make this a part of my life, I began to put it into practice and it was worth it. My perspective and outlook changed.

First, I learned there are two self-loves. There is the selfish kind which uses and takes from others without any consideration that has been done to others. Then there is the self-agape love. Having self-agape love is healthy and good. As we reflect on who we are and at our identity we begin to appreciate the gift our creator has given. It is respecting yourself, accepting yourself, even your flaws, and embracing your strengths. Being okay with who you are and practicing this self-love will help to ground, encourage and motivate you.

Some steps to begin with learning how to loving yourself:

Be kind to, trust in, respect yourself, and don’t compare yourself to others,

Improving self-love also helps to improve mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health. 

It helps with building confidence

Loving yourself, you realize you are good and acceptable the way you are.

It allows you to be more lenient with yourself

Practicing self-love allows you to forgive yourself of mistakes or wrongs done and helps you move forward from the past.

It helps give more of a positive perspective

Being okay with who you are, loving yourself, you are motivated to be and live more positively.

It helps with providing more of an understanding of others

Making self-love a part of your lifestyle helps you to accept people for who they are and not to judge them.

It helps with setting boundaries

Having self-love you respect the person you are, setting boundaries and not letting others take advantage of you in any way.

It helps with mindfulness

Loving yourself helps you to be more aware of your thoughts and feelings, and helps give you more of an understanding of yourself.

It improves your outlook on life

Being okay with yourself, loving yourself changes your outlook on life. This brings more of a contentment within you and you are more apt to reach out to assist others when in need.