This month we’re focused on matters of the heart. Whether you’re celebrating American Heart Month and committing to cardiovascular health goals or strengthening bonds with loved ones on Galentines Day, Valentines Day and beyond, self-love is the cornerstone of it all. Read on for some self-love tips from our behavioral health team.
1. Foster positive self-talk
Talk to yourself like you’re talking to someone you love. When you start to hear yourself being self-critical, try to reframe your thoughts.
| Negative self-talk | Positive self-talk |
| “I’m so bad at this.” | “I’m learning.” |
| “I never do anything right.” | “I can figure this out.” |
| “This is too difficult for someone like me.” | “Anyone can struggle with new things.” |
2. Learn to praise yourself
When you accomplish something or show up for yourself, your family or your community, acknowledge it. This can look like documenting your accomplishments in a journal or through photos, taking yourself out somewhere special to celebrate or simply sharing your success with your friends and family through a phone call or text message.
3. Do one thing for yourself every day
Learning to prioritize you takes practice. To make self-care and self-love part of your life, choose a small activity just for you and practice it daily. You can take 30 minutes to do a skincare routine, take an extended walk outside to enjoy sunshine and fresh air, reconnect with a hobby you enjoy and so much more. These small acts can ladder up to a big change in your attitude—and your relationship with yourself.
4. Surround yourself with positive community
While a self-love journey sounds like it’s all about the self, it’s important to remember that we are social beings who need community. Surrounding yourself with people who support you can help show you how worthy you are of that love and support. So, choose friends and partners who are positive influences, which includes people who listen actively, honor your individuality and respect your choices.