Why love yourself?
This February, with Valentine’s Day right around the corner, I ask: why is it important to love ourselves? Well, I’ve been learning that it’s at the root of confidence and belonging.
These topics—confidence and belonging—have been showing up in my world of late:
Confidence because so many of us face new challenges (sometimes self-imposed and sometimes not) that stretch us, push us into our growth zone, make us uncomfortable, and make us question our ability to take these on. Despite being highly capable and having many successes under our belt, we question, “Can I really do this?” or “Do I have what it takes?” And yet, we are all highly capable.
That brings me to belonging, because that line of thinking often takes us to thinking: “I don’t belong here” or “I don’t deserve to be here.” But you belong if you show up as your true self and believe in that person.
When we can get comfortable in our own skin, in essence love ourselves (all of us), and when we can trust and believe in ourselves, we can quiet the internal voices of concern and doubt. We can build our confidence and sense of belonging. So, what can you call forward to support you during such times of self-doubt? Consider:
What do I love about myself?
What can I do to bring my full, powerful self forward?
When have I proven I can do what it takes?
When have I demonstrated grit, and how can I call upon my tenacity now?
How can I apply a growth mindset to this challenge to support my stretch?
What support might I need to ensure I’ll be successful?
How can I honor my personal values in whatever I am taking on, honoring myself?
So, love yourself. Build your confidence. Know that you belong. Get comfortable in your own skin, and find the power in fully embracing who you are.
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