In today's society, self-love can be one of the most difficult things to maintain. Through the integration of technology and social media into every second of our lives, we are constantly bombarded with the best-versions of others. As we scroll through our Instagram feeds after a long night of fighting with a significant other, realizing how financially unstable we are, or questioning the future, we look at how perfect everyone else's lives seem to be. What we often fail to remember is that what we are seeing is everyone's best selves, when often times we turn to social media in order to keep us from accessing our worst selves.
Modern day technology masks our ability to feel any emotion fully. Too sad? Mindlessly scroll through Twitter to mask the pain. Angry? Look at Instagram models and celebrities until you cool down. The issue with the implementation of technology and our dependance on social media is that self-love has become such a rarity in the modern day world. So please, put the phone away and implement these ten routines in order to regain your self-love and realize how important you are once again.
1. Limit your time spent on social media.
Comparing your body to others' bodies will only leave you feeling inadequate. Allow yourself to stay up to date with those you care about, but try not to consume yourself in the Instagram models and fitness accounts that will leave you feeling like you are not good enough.
2. Wake up every day and set your intention.
Each day, set a goal for yourself. Whether it is calling a loved one or running a 5K, better yourself each day and be proud of yourself for accomplishing what you set out to do.
3. Compliment others on their beauty.
The world has too much ugly in it. Be kind and compassionate to others. If you love someone's new hair cut or think their eyes are beautiful, tell them. Appreciating others' beauty instead of being jealous of it will leave you feeling at peace with yourself.
4. Recognize that you, too, are beautiful.
Each morning, look in the morning and be thankful. By recognizing your own beauty, you will go about your day with less worry of what others think of you.
5. Go out and do good.
By helping others, you will feel more appreciative of what you have been blessed with. Try to do one good deed per week; helping not only your self-worth but also another person's.
6. Spend time in nature.
By realizing all of the beauty that lies around us, we can feel more at peace living in the world. Take time every day to go outside and recognize all of the beauty in creation.
7. Take time to indulge in your hobbies.
Have a hobby you love? Do it with passion. By leaving time for what makes us happy, we are more likely to feel at ease during times of stress or sadness.
8. Sleep often and well.
Sleep affects so many things. By allowing yourself to get enough sleep, you are more likely to look more refreshed, maintain a healthy weight, and be in a better mood from day to day.
9. Spend time with loved ones.
Because honestly, who is more important? Setting aside time for your family members every week, even if it is only a FaceTime or phone call, will give you confidence and remind you how loved you are.
10. Remember your worth.
At the end of the day, it is important to never forget how worthy you are of not only self-love but love itself. If you are in a relationship or a friendship that does not lift you up and bring you higher as a person, it is beneficial to take time to yourself and remind yourself how worthy you are.
We live in a world so focused on perfection, Instagram likes, and temporary happiness. It is time we take a step back and realize how important it is to love ourselves and all of the beauty of the world around us.
