Self-love isn’t selfish! Take some time this Valentine’s day (or any other day) to show yourself some love.
Flying solo? Being single on Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to suck! Whether you’re newly single or have been flying solo for as long as you can remember, Valentine’s Day isn’t exclusively for couples.
Make February 14th a day of self-love, regardless of your relationship status. Give yourself some much-needed pampering and attention—you deserve it.
Here are 7 ways to fall in love with yourself this Valentine’s Day. Just remember: there’s a difference between being alone and being lonely. The choice is up to you!
#1: Write a Love Letter Addressed to Yourself
Take it from fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg, “the most important relationship in your life is the relationship you have with yourself. Because no matter what happens, you will always be with yourself.”
Without carefully tending to the relationship with yourself, living a fulfilling life is next to impossible.
So, grab a pen and paper and write yourself a love letter. Celebrate the achievements you’ve made over the last year. Share beautiful memories from your past. Write about the future you envision for yourself. And whatever you do, don’t type it out. After all, you wouldn’t type a love letter to a partner, right? Show yourself the same respect. This is the perfect opportunity for you to fall in love with yourself again.
#2: Treat Yourself
A Valentine’s Day dinner for one? Why not? Use this day as an excuse to splurge on something nice for yourself. Make yourself a 3-course meal, order in from the fancy restaurant down the street, buy those boots you’ve been eyeing on Amazon or give yourself a mani and pedi. Today’s the day to get something totally unnecessary (but fun) for yourself. Whatever it may be, this is the day to make yourself a top priority!
#3: Connect With Your Loved Ones
Valentine’s Day might be a celebration for couples, but who says you have to stick to that? Plan something special for you and your friends and family instead. Host a virtual dinner or plan a romcom binge-fest with your loved ones.
Enjoying some quality time with your friends and family can diminish any negativity you may have surrounding this day.
And if you’re really feeling FOMO for not having a significant other on this special day, why not treat your friends and family instead? Send them valentines, make them cookies or simply gift them with your time. There’s nothing greater than going out of your way to make life beautiful for others. It’s the best medicine for lifting your spirits.
#4: Engage in a Wellness Ritual
It’s probably been way too long since you took some quality time for yourself. Make this day all about you. Practice self-love by engaging in a mindful wellness ritual. Gift yourself a spa day, get a facial or indulge in a wellness treatment that soothes your body, mind and soul. And if you’re not up for leaving the house, grab a glass of wine, light some candles and take a warm bubble bath. This is a surefire way to instantly uplift you.
#5: Invest in Your Health
You have the choice to practice self-love or not. Self-love is a long-term investment in your health and well-being.
If you’re not already focused on your health, today’s your day to subscribe to a wellness podcast, cook a healthy meal, complete an online workout with Gymondo or find some time to meditate. Health and wellness activities are scientifically proven to boost your endorphins and put a smile on your face.
#6: Make a List
One of the best ways to celebrate yourself is to make a list of everything you love about yourself.
Grab a notebook or journal and write down your dreams, goals, accomplishments, strengths—anything you would compliment others with should be added here. It’s your chance to compliment yourself. While it may feel awkward to focus on your own awesomeness, with time, it will get easier to aim your love inward. And don’t just do this on February 14th—make it something you do on the reg to gently remind yourself how amazing you are!
#7: Surround Yourself With People Who Uplift You
You are who you surround yourself with. Debbie Downer and Negative Nellie rarely get invited to the party. If you’re surrounded by Debbies and Nellies, it’s time to make a change. Your self-love practice is 100% reflected in the people in your inner circle. Spend time with people who inspire and elevate you and set boundaries for those who don’t. Put time and energy into mutually beneficial relationships, otherwise, your energy will be drained.
Here’s your challenge: invite someone whose energy you enjoy to meet up for coffee, go for a socially distanced walk or join you for an online yoga class. Whatever activity you enjoy, invite an uplifting friend to join.
Final Thoughts
Sometimes, a holiday like Valentine’s Day can derail your sense of self, especially if you’ve experienced a recent breakup or if you can’t seem to pin down your crush. And even if you’re in a relationship, you can still feel lonely. Regardless of your relationship status, use these tips this Valentine’s day to shower yourself with some much-deserved self-love.
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