Deserving Love …

This quote (photo given to me by niece) is my daily reminder for self-love.  

“You, yourself, as much as anybody else in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection” ~ Buddha.

This is such a powerful reminder that self-love and self-care are crucial for leading a fulfilling life. And yet, I see many people struggling with loving themselves and often prioritize the needs of others over their own.

What I know is it’s important to recognize that self-love is not selfishness. Taking care of your own needs and giving yourself the love and attention, you deserve is not only good for you but also for the people around you. When you feel happy, confident, and loved, you radiate positive energy and can inspire those around you to do the same. Now, isn’t that what we all need right now.

Self-love starts with accepting yourself for who you are, flaws and all. We all have imperfections, but it’s how we view them that matters. Instead of dwelling on what you don’t like about yourself, focus on your strengths and the things that make you unique. Treat yourself with the same kindness and compassion you would offer a close friend or loved one. A great example, if you make a mistake, don’t beat yourself up over it. Instead, acknowledge the error, learn from it, and move on. Trust me, it’s not worth holding on to.

Self-love also involves taking care of your physical and emotional well-being. Make time for activities that nourish your body and soul, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones. Get enough sleep, eat nutritious foods, and drink plenty of water. Take breaks when you need them and don’t overload your schedule with too many responsibilities. Setting boundaries with others is also an important part of self-love. Saying “no” to something that doesn’t serve your best interests is not selfish, but rather a way to protect your time and energy. I know everyone knows these things and what I’m asking now is to make time to do these things for you.

Practicing self-love can be difficult, especially if you’re used to putting others first. However, the benefits of loving and accepting yourself are well worth the effort. When you prioritize your own needs, you’ll feel more confident, energized, and empowered to tackle whatever challenges come your way.

Let’s don’t forget that self-love also has a positive impact on relationships. When you love yourself, you attract people who treat you with respect and kindness. You set healthy boundaries and communicate your needs effectively, which creates more meaningful and fulfilling connections. Self-love also allows you to approach relationships from a place of abundance rather than lack, as you are not seeking external validation or love to fill a void within yourself. This can lead to more harmonious and authentic relationships, where both parties are able to show up as their true selves and support each other’s growth. So, prioritize your relationship with yourself and watch how it positively impacts all areas of your life, including your relationships with others.

Remember, practicing self-love is not a one-time event, it’s a continuous journey. Embrace your imperfections, celebrate your accomplishments, and prioritize your well-being. Treat yourself with kindness, compassion, and respect, and always remember that you are worthy of love and happiness. Start today and take small steps every day to cultivate a more loving and fulfilling relationship with yourself. You deserve it!