Loving yourself. You are told by celebrities and people who have no idea you even exist to love yourself. But they don't explain how to love yourself, how to take pride in everything you are. Loving yourself is important to living a happy and healthy life. It is important to embrace who you are and all you have to offer to the world whether it be a sport, music, poetry, photography, so on and so forth.

I am here today to explain how you are able to show self love and appreciation.

1. Remind yourself that you are in control of yourself, and yourself only!

So many times people try to control others outlooks, opinions, and reactions, but you are only in control of yourself. By reminding yourself that you cannot control others words or actions, you are taking a stressor off of your plate and you will begin to focus more on your emotions, reactions, and outlooks.

2. Know your limits!!!!!!

This is a HUGE problem that many people struggle with nowadays. Everything is a competition, and if you cannot keep up with others, then you are looked down upon. If you do not share similar interests, then you are judged. But you cannot control others and what they may think, and people will always have opinions so dare to be different! Do not settle as being a copy.

3. Do not stay cooped up in your house all the time.

You may think you are avoiding trouble by staying in as much as possible, but you are missing out on human interaction and all the possible adventures that are out there. You may have days where you feel as if it is humanly impossible to get yourself out of the house and that is okay! Take some days off if you absolutely need to. But do not live your life without experiencing fun, and relaxation, and communication with others. You never know, you may meet someone who changes your outlook completely, Try to get out as much as possible, and not just because you have to for work or school.

4. Do not feel pressured to be doing something every waking hour.

If you usually are always jam packed with plans, take a day or two off to just relax and enjoy some alone time. Learn to enjoy a good book, or find a great new band, or even pick up a hobby. You are still doing activities, without all the added pressure of time or of who is around.

5. Learn to live for yourself, not to please others.

I am kind of going back to number one for this one. But do not feel pressured into going to college if you do not want to, or pursuing a career that your parents want for you. While suggestions from others can be beneficial, do not be forced into a decision that you do not agree with. If you want to pursue acting, then pursue acting. If you want to pursue law enforcement, then pursue it.

Self love is all about learning to care for and put yourself first. You are not selfish for making your health and well being your main priority.

Stay strong and fight on!

Sincerely,

A girl who finally figured things out.