The Power of Self-Love

January 24, 2015 | All Articles, post-tsb-team |

Self-love is the prerequisite for being loved by others. According to Deborah Khoshaba, Psy.D., self-love has been defined as, “a state of appreciation for oneself that grows from actions that support your physical, psychological and spiritual growth.” There is a seven day prescription to self-love:

Forgive yourself
We are all humans and we all make mistakes; mistakes foster growth and learning within ourselves. All slips and blunders are just lessons we learn in life. They make us stronger and enable us to deal with obstacles in the future.

Become mindful
Individuals that are mindful tend to act on knowledge rather than what other people want. You cannot live to please others. If you are sure of what you want to accomplish in life, then your own opinion is what should guide you.

Act on what you need rather than what you want
Turn yourself away from things you want and focus on things that will keep you centered, strong, and moving forward in life. The things you need will help you advance in your journeys. You will feel satisfied with the things you need and not obsess over those you do not.

Practice good self-care
Care for yourself with the basic personal necessaries: amount of sleep, daily exercise, and proper nutrition. Incorporate healthy social interactions into your daily life. Taking care of yourself is the first step to feeling good.

Live intentionally
Live your life with purpose and design. Picture yourself accomplishing what you set out to do in life. Setting goals and working to achieve them establishes this purpose that is needed to feel motivated.
Protect yourself
Surround yourself with people, such as friends and family, who take pleasure in your success and happiness. It is important to be around people who are positive influences and encourage you to succeed.
Set boundaries
Say no. Set limits on work, love, and activities that deplete you mentally, physically, and spiritually. It is important to set time apart for yourself and not be overwhelmed by outside influences.

Deborah Khoshaba goes on to say, “You can only love another individual as much as you love yourself . . . You will start to attract people and circumstances to you that support your well-being.”

References:

http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/get-hardy/201203/seven-step-prescription-self-love