7 Steps to Self Love

We are all pretty familiar with the term ‘Self love’. It’s flung around a lot these days and more so when we’re ‘feeling ourselves’. However it is more than just external confidence, it is something that must be instilled deeply within us. We can be confident but have a deep lack of self esteem. We use the term but do we actually correctly apply it... do we really wholeheartedly love ourselves?

We can love ourselves when things are going well or when we are feeling good but do we love ourselves through the darkest of days? Self love grows as we embark on a journey of personal development and by that I mean our physical, spiritual and psychological growth. Each and every one of those aspects directly links into self love. I used to ask myself How do love myself? How do I love myself through mistakes and just generally after being an arsehole?

It doesn't magically happen overnight. It's a deep gradual process. Below are 7 steps to put into practise. 

1. Put yourself first. No it’s not selfish it is vital. As we grow up our priorities change and responsibilities take over. We start to slide down our own list of priorities. We get so caught up in taking care of others we forget our needs, if we are not fulfilled and happy within how can we give to others. People around you will benefit greater if you are at happy within.  Do the things YOU love and enjoy.
2. Being self aware. Self love without self awareness is useless, they go hand in hand. Reflecting your thoughts, actions, decisions and general behaviour is so important. If you truly love yourself wouldn’t you want to be the best version of yourself? It can be hard to admit your true emotions even to yourself but it’s important to truly connect and be honest with yourself. Self awareness is important in order to eradicate negative behaviours. 
3. Self care. Taking care of yourself by fulfilling your basic needs. Eating well, your physical health, good sleeping habits, limiting or giving up bad habits ect will have you feeling good from within and raise your energy.
4. Forgive yourself. Mistakes are a natural part of life, it’s actually where you learn the most about yourself. Every situation gives you an opportunity to elevate or sink. If you are clinging on to negative situations you’ll hold yourself back from progressing. Let go learn and elevate.
5. Set boundaries. Lack of healthy boundaries with people can leave us feeling drained, disrespected, anxious, unfocused, open to hurt and manipulation... the list goes on. It is also important to communicate to others why you are setting these boundaries. 
6. Invest in the right people and be aware of your environment. Your environment has a massive impact on your growth and so does investing in the right people. The most beautiful friendships and relationships are when you challenge and motivate each other. An unhealthy relationship is usually only one person investing and getting little or nothing back. Be conscious of who you bring into your inner circle.
7. Find your purpose and stay focused.  We are all blessed with unique gifts. Discovering what they are and how best to use this gives you a sense of purpose. You will appreciate your strengths and qualities.

Once you raise your standards within yourself you naturally start attracting and allowing others to reciprocate. Love is powerful emotion that so many of us try to block. Be love, feel love, Give love. It all starts with you. Show others how to love and treat you by how you love yourself.