Something that we often hear over and over are the words "love yourself." I believe that these words often times actually go unheard, even if you've been told it a million times. In today's society, loving yourself doesn't seem to be something that is "in." But, to me, loving yourself is something that is incredibly attractive, and is essential to one’s wellbeing.

I am the epitome of the phrase "love yourself." Man, oh man, could I go on about myself all day. I am proud of who I am, where I've come from, and what I've accomplished. But, I will admit, the journey has not always been great. There were times that I've struggled with my self-image, and honestly, there are times that I still do. But the thing is, I've taken the time to reflect and come to the realization that my eye color, hair color, weight, outfit choices, etc. don't define me. These things definitely help make me the unique person I am, but I am not limited to them. I have found peace within myself, but I am also aware that there can always be room for improvement.

A theme in people’s lives that I see way too often, is a lack of positive behavior towards themselves. And by this I mean, we treat our friends with great respect—we offer them love, support, acceptance, empathy, and compassion; but where is this love for ourselves? How often do we take the time to offer ourselves the positivity that we need? Rarely. We do not take a break out of our day to get in touch with our wants and desires.

Love is not only a feeling or emotion— it is also an action. Loving as an action can consist of but is not limited to your emotional wellbeing, physical wellbeing, financial situations, and the relationships you carry with others. You must take steps to meet your own needs.

Here are some ways you can love yourself more:

1. Point out the things you love about yourself.

2. Forgive yourself for your wronging.

3. Make changes that will make you happy.

4. Find things that make you happy and do them every day.

5. Believe in yourself.

6. Don't compare yourself to others.

7. Spend time with yourself.

8. Take care of your health/physical wants and needs.

9. Laugh at yourself.

10. Realize that not everyone will like you, and that's okay.

11. Smile more.

12. Never forget to put yourself first.

"Love yourself first and everything else falls into place."