How to set the right tone for the year with self-love

Self-love takes time to develop and grow. Honestly, today I know I see myself with love and kindness and I know, there is scope for more. But was it always like that? Maybe, I always loved myself but this relationship has evolved over the years and I cannot really pinpoint a day. 

Though we have a clean slate, calendar-wise, life doesn’t work that way, does it? We still carry our past lessons and experiences, and there is so much more awaiting us. So why not take all of that and start the year with nothing but self-love and a promise to fortify our relationships with ourselves?

Here’s what you can do to set the right tone for the coming months.

Practise affirmations

If you repeat a lie several times, you may start believing it. Similarly, sometimes, we need to repeat the truth several times, to start accepting it as reality. You are amazing and you can do it. Write affirmations based on what you need to start believing in and attracting to your life.

Look at yourself as your best friend

Many times, we need to give ourselves the same advice we’d give our bestie. You know when a romantic interest isn’t treating you right and you end up not asking them to leave? Or when you are being too hard on yourself for not having a flat stomach or making a mistake at work? Would you say the same things you think about yourself to your best friend? Show yourself the same love and kindness you’d show your best friend, because news flash, you are your bestie!

Stop apologising for your needs

Self-love isn’t just learning to love who you are but also being unapologetic about your needs. You may feel like you need too much or that what you expect from life, work or relationships is not correct. But there is enough gaslighting out there. Showing yourself some self-love means validating your own expectations and knowing you deserve better. 

Draw boundaries

Loving yourself also means drawing boundaries to protect yourself and your energy from getting drained. This year, if you are not comfortable with something, then, say no or limit accessibility. It’s difficult to say no to loved ones but sometimes, you need to show more love to yourself. You can’t pour from an empty cup!

Slow down

This year, love yourself enough to slow down. Be in the moment, embrace the present, breathe, hydrate and get some sleep. Love yourself by doing only what you can, without feeling like every cell in your body would spontaneously combust. It’s good to hustle but constantly being in survival mode is not called living your life. This year, live.