I have seen time and time again an emphasis on the importance of learning to speak the love languages of those around you. Every person presents and accepts love in a way unique to them. Ideally, learning the love language of your partners, friends, and peers strengthens the bond between you. I'm here to encourage you to do something else, but equally as important, with your love language. To use it for yourself, on yourself, with yourself. As popular media makes self-love more and more trendy, I think it's important to remember that self love and care can come in countless forms. It's important to cater your self-love and care routine to what you need.
If you strive for words of affirmation, leave encouraging notes for yourself, remind yourself that you're important, and talk to yourself the way you would to someone you love.
Listen to music that encourages you, to discussions that inspire you. Use words to your advantage to uplift yourself.If your love language is physical touch, take actions that will comfort you. Take time to get a massage, go to the park, take a bath, read a book, etc. Physically connect to your situation and get acquainted with activities that make you feel good.
Receiving gifts... This can seem like a hard love language to speak with yourself. Gifts are usually surprises, however I want to think of gifts in a new light. For example, getting yourself something every month that makes you happy. It doesn't have to be huge, it doesn't even have to be big. Just small items to show yourself some love every once in a while. That can mean new swimsuits, clothes, makeup, sneakers, housewares, stickers, toys, gadgets, whatever you want. Please don't ever forget that you are just as deserving of gifts as anyone else you'd give them to.
Next up, spending some quality time with yourself. If your main love language is quality time, schedule little dates with yourself. Take yourself to yoga, the library, on a tour. Remember to reach out of your comfort zone every once in a while and try something new with yourself, whether it's rock climbing or meditation. You are the person you're going to spend your whole life with, enjoy your time with you.
Last but definitely not least, acts of service. Do you need an oil change? Need the dishes to be washed? Need new flowers to be planted? Do things for yourself, set aside some time and learn how to do little acts that will make all of the difference. Allocate time every week to doing an act of service for yourself.
Above all, the takeaway here should be that there is no wrong way to show yourself a little care. Combine love languages, try new ones, or use them all. We often spend endless time and energy thinking about what we can do for those around us. Don't forget to take time for yourself, you are your greatest priority.
