Learn To Love Yourself (Again)

2 years ago - I was medically diagnosed with major clinical depression.

Daily self-loathing, self-hate, self-blame, and self-unkindness were my inner dialogues on repeat. And on maximum volume.

It was hard to look in the mirror each day, let alone love myself.

But I pushed on and picked myself back up. Bit by bit. piece by piece.

Today I love myself so much that I really enjoy spending time on my own and I do whatever it takes to protect my peace, my mind and my body.

So in this article, I want to share with you the profound concept of self-love, exploring its significance in nurturing our mental and emotional health, and providing actionable strategies for cultivating a deeper sense of self-acceptance and empowerment.

Learn to love yourself again. You deserve it. And you can do it.

Understanding Self-Love

Self-love is more than just a trendy buzzword; it is a fundamental aspect of our existence that encompasses self-acceptance, self-compassion, and self-respect. At its core, self-love is about recognising our inherent worth and embracing our authentic selves, flaws and all. It involves treating ourselves with kindness, empathy, and understanding, even in the face of challenges and setbacks.

The Impact of Neglecting Self-Love

When we neglect self-love, we open ourselves up to a host of negative consequences that can undermine our mental and emotional well-being. Low self-esteem, negative self-talk, and seeking external validation are just a few of the common manifestations of this neglect. We may find ourselves trapped in a cycle of self-doubt and self-criticism, unable to fully appreciate our worth or realise our potential.

Cultivating Self-Love

Fortunately, cultivating self-love is not only possible but essential for our overall happiness and fulfillment. It requires a conscious effort to prioritise self-care, challenge limiting beliefs, and set boundaries that honor our needs and values. Here are some actionable strategies for nurturing self-love and embracing our true selves:

1. Practice Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a friend facing a difficult situation. Instead of berating yourself for perceived shortcomings, practice self-compassion by acknowledging your humanity and offering yourself words of encouragement and support.
2. Prioritise Self-Care: Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine by engaging in activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Whether it's spending time in nature, practicing mindfulness, or indulging in a favorite hobby, prioritise activities that bring you joy and rejuvenation.
3. Challenge Negative Thoughts: Become aware of the negative self-talk that may be holding you back and challenge these thoughts with more empowering and compassionate alternatives. Reframe self-critical thoughts into statements of self-affirmation and remind yourself of your inherent worth and capabilities.
4. Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to people and situations that drain your energy or compromise your values. Setting boundaries is essential for protecting your mental and emotional well-being and establishing healthy relationships built on mutual respect and understanding.
5. Practice Gratitude: Cultivate an attitude of gratitude by focusing on the blessings in your life and expressing appreciation for yourself and others. Keep a gratitude journal, take time each day to reflect on what you're thankful for, and savor the simple joys that enrich your life.

Final Thoughts

By prioritising self-love and embracing our authentic selves, we unlock the door to a life filled with meaning, purpose, and fulfillment. When we learn to love and accept ourselves unconditionally, we free ourselves from the shackles of self-doubt and insecurity, allowing our true essence to shine through.

Self-love is not a destination but a journey – a journey of self-discovery, growth, and transformation. It requires patience, commitment, and self-reflection, but the rewards are immeasurable. As we nurture our relationship with ourselves with kindness and compassion, we create a solid foundation upon which we can build a life of joy, abundance, and inner peace.

So, I invite you to embark on this journey of self-love with an open heart and a willingness to embrace all that you are. You are worthy of love, acceptance, and happiness – now and always.

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Gratitude and Acknowledgement

This article is dedicated to Cassandra Lee who was a world-class colleague turned lifelong friend. She inspired and taught me the importance of self-relationship, self-perception, and self-love. We must always do what is right from our heart, and not what others think it's right for us. Otherwise, we'll be living a life in accordance with others' expectations and not loving ourselves the way we should. Thank you Cass for the friendship!

About the author

Eric shows up every week as a way to give back to the LinkedIn community, sharing insights and life lessons gained from his two-decade journey at the crossroads of leadership, banking, social entrepreneurship, and mental health. Currently residing in Ipoh, Malaysia, Eric dedicates his efforts to promoting mental wellness through his YouTube channel, My Purpose Today. As the founder of this non-profit organization, he is passionately committed to producing digital content on wellness, drawing from his first-hand personal experience in the mental health field.