So, I didn't interview Justin Bieber to find out what he meant by love yourself in his hit song 'Love Yourself,' but I have my interpretation of the lyrics. If you haven't listened to the song, you should. As soon as I heard the song I immediately fell in love with it, because I've been learning to truly love who I am.
I recently got out of a three-year relationship with someone who I gave my all to and consequently lost myself in the relationship. I never felt good enough during the relationship. I always wondered, "Maybe if my hair was straighter, skin lighter, skinnier or fatter, then maybe I would be good enough for him?" It wasn't until after I left the relationship when I realized that self-love comes from within and not from how someone else treats you. Here's a list on how to love yourself more than anyone could love you.
Spend time learning who you are.
Many people in a relationship don't spend enough time with themselves. Read a book, have a 'Netflix and chill' night by yourself, or have dinner alone. Time alone helps individuals to reflect, relax, and gain self-reliance. According to psychologist Sherrie Carter, "Solitude gives you an opportunity to discover yourself and find your own voice."
Focus on your passions and hobbies.
The more time you spend with someone else, the more time you spend doing what they like to do. That's OK, but don't forget about the things that you enjoy. Once I left the relationship I was in, I rediscovered my love for learning, reading, and photography. Doing the things that you are passionate about ignites your fire. Sharpen your skills and focus on your goals.
Build your faith.
As I spent more time with the person I was in love with, I spent less time with God. Your faith helps you stay grounded and gives you inner peace. Spending more time on your religion and building that relationship with God is more rewarding than any other relationship that you're in.
Spend more time with your friends.
Many people neglect or forget about their friends when they are in romantic relationships. However, friendships complement our souls differently than romantic relationships. It is said that friendship is most necessary for living. "Friendships can spur creativity and innovation, they relieve loneliness even more than siblings and spouses do," says psychologist and professor Andrea Bonior. So, go hang out with your friends and be silly together!
Listen to music.
Music is extremely therapeutic. Listen to music as much as you can. When your in the shower, in the car, doing homework, cooking, and exercising--make sure you are listening to music. I've learned that music keeps me from thinking too much and relaxes me. There is music for every emotion. Chris Brown makes me feel sexy, Rihanna makes me feel like a rock star, and Beyonce makes me feel untouchable.So instead of ranting on social media about your feelings, grab some headphones and blast the song that best relates to how you're feeling--you'll feel better, I promise.
Pamper yourself.
It's something about spending my money on myself that makes me feel empowered. Go get your nails painted, go shopping, go get a massage, go get your hair done, or go get a wax. When you look good, you feel good. Go spend your hard earned money on yourself, it's a well-spent investment. When you do these self acts you feel more self-sufficient and less dependent on others to spoil you.
Spend less time on social media.
Social media is not bad, but sometimes unconsciously we compare ourselves to others and their lives or their physical appearance. The more time you spend online, the less time you're spending being productive or focusing on your life--instead your focusing on other people's lives.
The things listed above are meant to help you learn who you are as a person and ultimately love who you are. When Justin Bieber said "You should go and love yourself," I believe he meant you should go find yourself and gain self-confidence. You make yourself happy, and once you realize that, you will never feel less than good enough again.
