The secret to happiness – loving yourself

You’ve no doubt heard or read about the importance of loving yourself many times before. However, it’s certainly easier said than done, which can sometimes make the phrase seem pretty meaningless.  How exactly do you learn to love yourself?  And how can loving yourself provide the key to happiness in your daily life?

Unfortunately, for most of us, loving ourselves is not the default setting.  Instead, it takes practice and hard work. Although we recognize the wonderful benefits that come from valuing and appreciating ourselves and acknowledging our own self-worth, it’s sometimes easier to focus on the negatives. That’s why it’s important to invest time and energy in learning to love you.

Here’s my top five tips which I hope will help you on your journey to loving yourself. Enjoy!

1.  Write a Love letter to yourself One of the most powerful ways to nurture your self-worth is to write a letter to yourself.  It may feel a little strange to be writing to yourself, but it’s amazing how empowering it can be.  In your letter, tell yourself about all the personal qualities that you admire, about the achievements of which you are most proud and about the important role you play in the lives of your family, friends and loved-ones.   You can post the letter to yourself, or simply keep it in a special place, where you can read it from time to time.  It will help to remind you about why you’re so lovable.

2.  360 degree feedback A common practice in many workplaces, 360 degree feedback is a way of gathering evidence from a variety of sources about your professional competence.  Why not apply it in your personal life?  Choose family members and friends that you trust, and ask them to tell you about the qualities they most admire in you.  Ask them how you make a difference in their lives, and why you’re so important to them.  This kind of feedback is wonderful, because it’s pretty difficult to argue with!  It’s positive evidence of your wonderful presence in the world – and is sure to make you feel happier instantly!

3.  Positive affirmations I really believe in the power of positive affirmations, especially the ones you create for yourself.  Affirmations are simply the most wonderful way to start the day, helping you to focus and channel your positive energy into your experiences and daily activities. One of my favorite affirmations is ‘I give and receive happiness every day.’ It’s very simple, but extremely profound, and reaches into every action and interaction. Think up some positive affirmations of your own. Stick them on your bathroom mirror or somewhere prominent, where you know you can read them aloud each day.

4.  Recruit a coach We all have times when our reserves run low and we need some encouragement to get up back on the path to self-love and happiness.  That’s why it’s important to recruit a positivity coach.  A colleague, a friend, someone who inspires you – but perhaps most importantly, a person you trust.  Ask them to give you a listening ear every now and then, so you can share your worries and anxieties.  Allow them to pep talk you back to a happier state of mind where you can reach your true potential.

5.  Celebrate yourself Finally, it’s important to celebrate the wonder that is you.  You’re actually amazing, whether you know it or not.  Taking time out to celebrate your successes with family, friends and loved ones is a great way to reinforce your achievements, and keep you on the road to self-love. Enjoy the journey.

How do you celebrate yourself?  Let me know I love feedback.  Just drop it in the comment box.  Thank you.

To your happiness,
Debbie