Dr Seuss is one of my favourites, even now on occasion I find myself leafing through Dr Seuss when in a book shop. The quotation above is my favourite Dr Seuss quotation - being you
IS amazing. However, very often that’s not the way it feels.
In my client work I meet clients who have a very long list of important people in their lives. More often than not this list sadly doesn’t always include themselves. Everyone else’s needs come first. Looking after yourself or putting you first is seen as selfish- in reality it is quite the opposite.
Consider the safety talk that flight attendants carry out on all flights. They state that should the cabin pressure change, an oxygen mask will drop from the panel above you - see to your own oxygen mask first then to those around you. In order to help others breathe you need to be able to breathe yourself.
In practicing self-love you give yourself permission to be you - with all your imperfections which, is what makes you unique. It can be challenging for many of us, particularly in times when we face serious upsets. It’s not about being self-absorbed or narcissistic; it’s about getting to know ourselves, caring about our well-being and our happiness. We practice self-love so we can push through our limiting beliefs and live a life that truly shines.
The following are some ways in which you can begin to love yourself:
• Self care - Treating yourself with the same level of care and attention you offer to those around you. Doing things that are right for you. Just because others might be upset that you didn’t help them that’s their decision to feel that way.
• Saying No - It’s ok to say no. You are responsible for your own needs and not for everyone else.
• Self Acceptance - both your positive aspects and your human imperfections. You cannot be all good all the time. That’s OK. You can work on self-improvement, but that doesn’t mean you overlook the parts of yourself you don’t like as much. They too are part of you.
• Me Time - Spending time doing things you enjoy – this will help to build your resilience and self-esteem.
• Asking for Help - If you are stuck with something, need someone to give a helping hand or a listening ear. By asking for help we develop a greater understanding of our needs and can start valuing ourselves as we do others.
Check out Anne Hathaway's experience of online comments and how she learned to love herself
