Why loving yourself first changes everything
In general, we are good people. We place a high importance on things like compassion, love and acceptance. We often work hard to model these values to those we come in contact with. We try to show care, respect and empathy to others. Yet, shouldn’t we do these things for ourselves as well?
Why don’t we treat ourselves with greater love? This may seem weird, yet it is vital to our well-being. Many times, due to personal issues and struggles, we treat ourselves poorly. We work when we’re exhausted. We worry when our mind is wiped out. We reach out to others with help although we may need it more. We are so eager to give to others that we neglect our own mental, physical and spiritual demands.
One of the things that can keep us from serving others is regret. Guilt is a common feeling that we punish ourselves with. We carry shame from the past and, too often, we go back to those old mistakes and kick ourselves in the shins. When we overcompensate by helping others non-stop, we can forget that we are also human and have the same desperate needs.
In order to properly care for others, we mustn’t lose sight of caring for our own bodies, minds, and hearts.
What can you do?
Pamper yourself. Have dialogues with yourself to check your state of mind. Allow yourself to relax and unwind. If you choose to believe, reach out to a higher power and trust that things will work out. Forgive. Meditate. Play. Help others more effectively because you are treating yourself well as you become more tranquil.
After all, how can we love others if we don’t, at first, love ourselves?