By Nicole Nordli
One of the most important relationships we will ever have, is the one with ourselves. Yet, it is one of the most complex and complicated ones we will ever have as well.
We tend to put conditions on our love, often feeling we are not worthy of loving ourselves until we are at our “perfect” weight, look a certain way, or are a certain shape or size. We’ve been led to believe that self-love is selfish, greedy, or indulgent and seem to put more time and energy into loving someone else, then we do with ourselves.
“To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance.” – Oscar Wilde
But it wasn’t always this way. As babies we were in love with ourselves from the moment we caught our reflection in the mirror. Staring at ourselves smiling and giggling, mesmerized by the person staring back at us. We weren’t looking at ourselves critically and pointing out our flaws and imperfections. We accepted ourselves wholeheartedly and loved ourselves unconditionally.
“Self love, self respect, self worth there’s a reason they all start with self you can’t find them in anyone else.”
– Unknown
That kind of unconditional love for ourselves is what we need to bring back. Accepting ourselves for who we are, where are, and just as we are is essential for living a healthy, positive, happy life, and for making any healthy permanent change. It is the foundation of everything we do… when we love ourselves unconditionally our actions and choices will reflect that, as it empowers us to make healthy decisions that serve us to moving forward, as opposed to holding us where we are.
But just like any other loving relationship, it takes commitment and understanding. It’s a daily practice of changing the way we speak to ourselves, how we show up for ourselves, and who we surround ourselves with. It’s accepting our good bits, our not so good bits, and every bit in-between…… and showing ourselves a hefty dose of compassion, grace and forgiveness along the way. Which is definitely not an easy task….. but WOW it is so worth it! xx
