Say it with me, “DEAR insert your name… I LOVE YOU!” Say it like you mean it! Now, when was the last time you said that to yourself? How does it feel?
Happy Valentine’s Month! This article is a topic that I have learned a valuable perspective about throughout my lifetime that I would like to share with my kababayan.
In the cacophony of modern romance, where dating apps promise love at a swipe and societal pressure urges us to seek companionship, there exists a fundamental truth often overlooked: the necessity of self-love before finding the right partner. It's a concept often misconstrued as selfishness or narcissism, but in reality, self-love is the cornerstone upon which healthy relationships are built. Before embarking on the journey of partnership, one must first embark on the journey of self-discovery and self-appreciation.
Self-love isn't merely about indulging in self-care rituals or practicing affirmations. It's a profound acceptance of oneself—flaws and all. It's about recognizing one's worth and understanding that happiness doesn't solely depend on external validation. It's about nurturing a relationship with oneself that is unconditional and unwavering. In a world that often dictates what we should be, embracing who we are becomes an act of rebellion—an act of self-love.
When we love ourselves deeply, we set the standard for how we allow others to love us. We establish boundaries that safeguard our emotional well-being. We refuse to settle for relationships that compromise our values or diminish our self-worth. Self-love empowers us to walk away from toxic dynamics and seek connections that nourish our souls. It becomes the guiding light that illuminates the path to genuine love.
Moreover, self-love cultivates resilience in the face of heartbreak and rejection. Instead of viewing failed relationships as reflections of our inadequacy, we perceive them as opportunities for growth. We recognize that our worth isn't diminished by someone else's inability to see it. Through self-love, we learn to find solace in solitude and strength in vulnerability. We understand that being alone doesn't equate to loneliness—it's an opportunity to deepen the most important relationship we'll ever have: the one with ourselves.
In a society that often romanticizes the notion of finding "the one," we tend to overlook the significance of being "the one" for ourselves. We search for completeness in external sources, failing to realize that true fulfillment comes from within. It's only when we love ourselves unconditionally that we become capable of giving and receiving love authentically. We cease to rely on others to fill the void within us because we've already filled it with self-love.
Self-love liberates us from the shackles of comparison and perfectionism. We embrace our imperfections as part of what makes us beautifully human. We release the need to conform to unrealistic standards and instead celebrate our uniqueness. Through self-love, we find the courage to pursue our passions, chase our dreams, and live authentically. We understand that our worth isn't contingent upon external achievements or societal validation—it's inherent and immutable.
The journey to self-love isn't always easy. It requires introspection, self-reflection, and a willingness to confront our inner demons. It demands that we challenge ingrained beliefs and dismantle self-limiting narratives. It's a journey of healing old wounds and learning to forgive ourselves for past mistakes. But amidst the challenges lies the promise of transformation—the promise of becoming the best version of ourselves.
Ultimately, self-love isn't a destination but a lifelong practice—a daily commitment to nurturing our mind, body, and spirit. It's about showing ourselves the same compassion, kindness, and empathy that we readily extend to others. It's about embracing our vulnerabilities and embracing our strengths. It's about acknowledging that we are worthy of love, not in spite of our imperfections, but because of them.
Before embarking on the quest for romantic love, let us first embark on the journey of self-love. Let us cultivate a deep and abiding love for ourselves—a love that serves as the foundation upon which all other relationships are built. For when we love ourselves fiercely and unapologetically, we become beacons of light, illuminating the path to love for ourselves and others alike.
Cheers to love everyone. Remember, if you love life… it will love you back.
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