Self-Love

What Does Self-Love Mean?

February 29, 2024

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In February, I made a conscious decision to take some time out for myself, to embark on a self-love journey, and to truly be present with my feminine energy. I’ve always been a doer, constantly in motion, which is very much aligned with masculine energy. But this month, I decided to pause, to heal, and to breathe. My family and friends had been encouraging me to just stop and take a break for a while, to discover more about myself.

So, as I write this blog on the 29th of February, I’m taking a step back from all the doing in my business and focusing solely on being present in my life. I’m nourishing my body with time, fresh air, reading, exercise, good nutrition, learning, and so much more.

I started this journey by reading a beautiful book called P.S. I Love Me by Gina Swire. This book was a revelation, filled with profound insights and gentle guidance. One quote that resonated deeply with me was, “Self-love is the foundation of all love. Without it, every other kind of love will be unsustainable.” These words became a mantra for me, a reminder that my relationship with myself is the most important one.

Inspired by Gina’s words, I began to dive deeper into what self-love truly means.

Self-love is a journey, not a destination. It’s about embracing who you are, flaws and all, and treating you with the same kindness and compassion you offer to others. For many of us, self-love doesn’t come naturally; it’s something we need to consciously cultivate, especially if we’ve experienced trauma or emotional hardship.

At its core, self-love means recognising your worth and knowing that you deserve happiness, respect, and care. It’s about setting healthy boundaries and not settling for less than you deserve. Self-love isn’t about being self-centred or narcissistic; it’s about valuing you enough to put your wellbeing first.

here are a few aspects of self-love

  • Acceptance: Embracing your true self, including your strengths and imperfections. It’s about acknowledging that you are enough just as you are. When you choose you every day, you start to see your unique value and worth.
  • Compassion: Treating you with the same gentleness and understanding that you would offer a close friend. It’s giving you grace when you make mistakes. Self-compassion means forgiving you and recognising that everyone has their own struggles and shortcomings.
  • Boundaries: Knowing your limits and being able to say no when you need to. It’s protecting your energy and prioritising your mental and emotional health. Setting boundaries is an act of self-respect and is crucial for maintaining healthy relationships.
  • Self-Care: Engaging in activities that nourish your body, mind, and soul. This can be anything from a relaxing bath to a walk in nature, reading a book, or even seeking therapy. Self-care is not just about pampering you; it’s about taking actions that support your overall wellbeing and happiness.
  • Positive Affirmation: Replacing negative self-talk with positive affirmations. Reminding you daily of your worth and capabilities. One of my favourite affirmations that I created is, “Self-love is the most powerful form of love. Choose you, and everything else will fall into place.” This resonates deeply with me, and I carry it as a reminder to always prioritise my own wellbeing.
  • Growth: Continuously working on becoming the best version of yourself. It’s about personal development and not being afraid to seek help when needed. Embracing growth means understanding that self-love is a lifelong journey, filled with learning and evolving.

my personal self-love story

Four years ago, I made a significant gesture towards my journey of self-love. I bought myself a LOVE ring from Tiffany’s and wrote a message to myself: “Love yourself, the rest will come”

This small yet powerful act was a turning point for me. It served as a daily reminder that self-love is the foundation upon which all other forms of love and happiness are built.

This year, I’ve decided to fully embrace self-love. For the next three months, I’m dedicating myself to this journey, working only 25% of the time, and focusing on being present and nurturing myself. I want to show women that they too can make this choice if they feel called to it. It’s okay to take time out for yourself, to focus on your own wellbeing, and to heal.

choosing you

The phrase “Choose You” holds immense power and significance. To me, it means prioritising my needs, my health, and my happiness. It’s a daily commitment to self-love and self-respect. When you choose you, you are acknowledging your worth and deciding to put your wellbeing at the forefront of your life.

What does “Choose You” mean to you?

Take a moment to reflect on this question.

How can you start choosing you in your daily life?

Whether it’s setting boundaries, taking time for self-care, or embracing your true self, choosing you is an act of love that can transform your life.

Self-love is empowering. It transforms how you interact with the world and the relationships you cultivate. It’s the foundation upon which you build a life of authenticity, joy, and resilience. Remember, self-love isn’t a one-time achievement; it’s a lifelong practice. So be patient with you, celebrate your progress, and keep nurturing that relationship with your inner self.

As you embark on your own journey, remember these wise words: “Your journey to self-love begins with one simple decision: to choose you every day.” So, take the time to love you deeply and completely. You deserve it.

final thoughts

If this resonates with you, I invite you to join me on this self-love journey. Take the time to reflect on what “Choose You” means in your life and how you can start prioritising yourself today. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, or follow me on Instagram where I share daily inspiration and support. Remember, choosing you is the most powerful decision you can make. Let’s embrace this journey together.

With love and strength, Lee-Anne x

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