What is the most important lesson kids should be learning in school? Math? History? Geology? Latin? Writing? Algebra? Balancing a checkbook? Taxes? Nope!

While those are important subjects, the one that beats the rest is the lesson of self-love. A lesson that currently isn’t being taught to kids. I’m not suggesting an entire class dedicated to making people love themselves. We don’t want to be raising a bunch of little narcissists. But, I do believe that it is important for kids to begin to learn that the person they are, no matter what that means, is okay.

As a child, you are free to explore everything so we as adults need to promote that and not stifle them. These kids are in a huge stage of development and teaching them that it is okay to be themselves is necessary. Also, teaching kids that this is okay can also open up for discussions about non-judgment and acceptance of everyone. Once you love yourself, you open yourself up to share love and be loved by others. In a world that is oozing hate out of every pore, we need to begin repairing the holes with kindness and compassion. While this is a lesson kids should begin learning, it is also a lesson we all can learn.

I know that self-love can be a difficult thing to teach and even learn. Here are some ideas to help you get started in the right direction.

Stop comparing yourself to others. No person on earth is perfect. Not even Beyoncé. So stop beating yourself up. You are just as awesome as the next person. You are beautiful and don’t you dare forget that. Accept differences and appreciate yourself.

Set goals for yourself. Today I will make a new friend. Tomorrow I will eat super healthy. Tonight I am going to do something that makes me happy. Believe in yourself!

Listen and understand. Learn from what is all around you and then you will understand yourself and others better.

Do a random act of kindness once a day. By helping others, you can help yourself. Lend someone a hand. Hold open the door for a stranger. Leave a generous tip for your server. This can truly change someone’s day and I am sure it will change yours.

Write your thoughts down. Let out all your negative thoughts and write down positive affirmations.

Do things that make you happy. Eat all the ice-cream. Go on a bike ride. Go to a carnival. Online shop. Binge watch Netflix. Take a nap. Do anything and everything to make yourself feel comfortable and happy.

Observe. Take in every ounce of the world around you. Look at the person you were and who you’ve become. Be humble and grateful for all that comes into your incredible life.

Our world needs to become a better place of inclusion and love. I won’t accept a world that is so incredibly hate-ridden. Love needs to begin now and that starts with all of us. You cannot help everyone, so start with helping yourself.