Valentine’s Day is approaching, and it is a day focused on love and appreciating those in our life we love. While we often think of spouses and significant others on Valentine’s Day, it is also important to take time to focus on our relationship with ourselves too. After all, we can’t be a good partner or even friend, if we don’t feel good about ourselves and take time for ourselves. Ask yourself, “Do you feel good about yourself?” “Do you give yourself the unconditional love you deserve?” “Do you make time for self-care?” If you aren’t able to answer “yes” to these three questions, below are some tips to help you feel good about yourself and take care of yourself this Valentine’s Day.
5 Ways to Boost Your Self-Esteem
Replace negative self-talk (e.g. “I can’t do anything right.”) with positive self-talk (e.g. “I am good at lots of things.”).
Engage in hobbies and activities that you enjoy and make you feel good about yourself.
Surround yourself with positive people that help you feel good about yourself.
Avoid comparing yourself to others. Remember, everyone has different strengths and challenges.
Create a list of all your positive attributes (i.e. personality traits, skills, talents, physical traits) that you feel good about. Read this list over regularly to remind yourself everything you have to offer.
5 Ways to Engage in Self-Care
Make time to engage regularly in activities that you enjoy and are relaxing (e.g. listening/playing music, art, writing/journaling, going to the spa, being outside with nature).
Take care of yourself physically by engaging in regular physical activity that you enjoy and eating well-balanced meals.
Make sure to get enough sleep to be at your best physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Engage in yoga, meditation, guided imagery, or prayer to help you feel calmer and more connected spiritually.
Develop a positive support system, so you have people you can go to during challenging times as well as to share in happy times with you.
When you have unconditional love for yourself and feel cared for, you are more likely to be able to provide that same care and unconditional love for others that are important in your life. If you still struggle with your relationship with yourself or others, therapy may be helpful. Consider calling us at 215-491-7570 to schedule an appointment with one of our clinicians.
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