On the “work on loving yourself” statement
So, I’ve started posting to instagram again. My last post before recently was back in March. I finally posted again on Monday which was November 18th, and my most recent post since then was on the statement “work on loving yourself” or “you need to love yourself”
I wrote a poem and put it into a 5 slide carousel.
I’ve heard this statement told to others, I’ve been told it before, I’ve seen the statement made plenty of times. I’m sure I’ve said it myself. To myself. And others.
Upon further reflection, I started thinking about how we don’t always do right by ourselves or the people we love, such as family. But it doesn’t necessarily mean we don’t love ourselves or our family.
And when I say we don’t always do right, I don’t mean abuse and things like that.
I’m more so talking about say for example, parents pushing their kids to get a specific job or towards goals that don’t align with what their child is actually interested in or good at. The parent never really tries to learn and help nurture the child’s gifts and talents - because they grew up thinking success happens in one specific way. So they’re doing it out of love right, for the most part most of them. They don’t love them any less, and the love isn’t just absent. Maybe misdirected instead.
I’m good when I do the things I say I’m going to do, I’m good when I do the things I want to do, I’m good when I’m doing things creatively.
It’s when I’m holding myself back that I feel the most lack.
I still love myself during that period, but just have to take accountability that maybe I’m not loving myself in the best way at the moment. Or maybe it’s a moment I need to learn to love the down moments as well and rest, reflect, etc.
I think a better way to say work on loving yourself or you “need” to love yourself (because that sounds like implying that the person doesn’t) is “love yourself ✨better✨ today” something along those lines.
When someone tells me to love myself I’m like 🤨 I do love myself I’m just having a moment. But thank you.
Do you love yourself?
Can we not have moments? Can we not have love from anyone but ourselves?
I went into a bit more detail on my YT video and the poem on IG. Overall, the subject and statement is not that deep. But things can get that deep- especially from a poets perspective lol
Love yourself better today ᰔᩚ
Thoughts?
#LoveYourself #selflovejourney #JournalWithMe #ipadjournal #embracevulnerability
The statement 'You need to love yourself' can often feel dismissive, especially during down moments. Instead, embracing the idea of 'love yourself better today' acknowledges that self-love is a journey filled with ups and downs. It's essential to reflect on how we express love towards ourselves and others, particularly in the context of familial relationships. Many parents, despite their good intentions, may push their children towards societal definitions of success, sometimes neglecting the child's true interests and talents. This dynamic reveals how love can manifest in different forms, even if it may not always meet our or our loved ones' needs. Understanding that moments of self-doubt or challenge don't equate to a lack of self-love is crucial. By allowing ourselves to experience and reflect on these moments, we can enhance our ability to love ourselves better. Practicing self-compassion means recognizing the learning that comes from our struggles and applying it to grow in self-love. Thus, fostering a mindset that values personal growth and authenticity can lead to a healthier relationship with oneself. Remember, self-love is not a destination but an ongoing practice, where each moment offers an opportunity to love ourselves in healthier, more meaningful ways. Keep journaling, reflecting, and connecting with your emotions, as each step brings you closer to understanding and embracing the true essence of self-love.
