Why I Vow to Love Myself More in 2022 and How You Can Too
We’ve heard the words far too often: embrace your authentic self, love the skin you’re in, don’t sweat the small stuff, this too shall pass.
And while such uplifting tongues can be rather inspiring, genuine in nature, and at times even amount to life-changing results, they are still merely words spoken by someone else, failing to consider our own personal experiences and point-of-view.
They are phrases—well constructed mantras from years past—that we as society have become heavily familiarized with and accustomed to listening to; whether spoken by well-intentioned friends and family post breakup, in our boss’s office after learning how we’d yet again ‘missed the mark’ on another quarterly report, or from our neighbor who is just a tad wrapped up in a cycle of toxic positivity—the kind where uncomfortable emotions are often dismissed and personal experiences invalidated—anxiously trying to abide by these mantras has become the norm: a way of fitting in and a way of staying “safe.”
But, today I’m here to tell you and also to tell myself: The problem does not lie in the abundance of Live, Laugh, and Love décor stretched throughout the aisles of your local Target or Five Below, or necessarily with others’ surface-level attempts at “cheering” you up in order to ensure your presence at Saturdays’ big game, but rather in how we see ourselves and the world around us.
This is why I’ve taken a vow to love myself more in 2022.
And why I hope you find a way to embark on the journey of loving yourself, too.
While resolutions to eat right, exercise, and to lose the ‘last ten pounds’ seem to so easily secure their spot in annual pocket-sized planners everywhere, I hope this years’ aim comes from somewhere deeper—someplace uncharted. A self-made mantra that’s unique to you.
I’m noticing that time and again, the personal work we need to do (but haven’t yet) is at the core of our struggles; it’s the reason we unknowingly self-sabotage relationships, over-apologize during times of stress or conflict, and indulge in one too many donuts despite knowing our body’s desire for nutrient-rich food (I know…easier said than done!)
It’s why we remain stagnant.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), it’s important to recognize the link between the way we feel about ourselves and our overall mental and emotional wellbeing: “When we learn to love ourselves, we strive for a better life—a happier relationship, a more fulfilling career or recovery from addiction.”
When we start loving ourselves, respecting and honoring our own happiness and well-being, we typically find the pieces start coming together. And yes, you may or may not find yourself walking (or running…) into your local fitness center asking about the New Year sign-up bonus. Though, the difference this time is you’ll be doing it for you—for someone who is worthy of love and devoid of self-punishment.
So, as we welcome the New Year ahead, you may ask yourself: how do I practice more self-love and rid myself of the thoughts and behaviors that keep me stagnant?
Well, let’s take a look at some helpful techniques to bring you closer to a healthier, happier you in 2022!
- Release old grudges and let go of resentment
- Incorporate self-care into your daily routine (indulge in forms of creative expression, spend quality time with loved ones, relax the mind and body through yoga, meditation, use of essential oils).
- Limit screen time and social media use
- Avoid unproductive and damaging behavior such as gossip and self-comparison
- Connect with people, places, and things that inspire you
- Redecorate your living space
- Volunteer for a cause that holds great meaning for you
- Take steps towards a healthier lifestyle (incorporate nutrient-rich foods in your diet, begin an exercise regimen that you enjoy, focus on sleep hygiene).
- Recognize negative or unproductive thoughts and redirect them with positive action (consider talking to a mental health professional that can help you challenge and reframe your thoughts and consequential behaviors).
- Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature
Remember that learning to love thy self is far from an easy task. While the process will be sure to test you in ways you never imagined, as your self-esteem improves and your outlook shifts, it’ll be clear that the transformation is well worth it.
And you my friend are most certainly worth it.
Happy New Year.
References
Gold, A. (2016, July 12). Why self-esteem is important for mental health. NAMI. Retrieved December 7, 2021, from https://www.nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/July-2016/Why-Self-Esteem-Is-Important-for-Mental-Health.
