Self-Love: Simple Ways To Show Yourself Some Extra TLC This Season

As we embrace this season of love, remember to shower yourself with the same affection.

Woman smiles while celebrating self-love
Photo design by BrownStyle Magazine

As a little girl, I remember walking up and down the aisle trying to decide which doll I should take home with me. I compared everything from hairstyles and accessories to style and personality. After intense moments of uncertainty, I would finally arrive at a decision. 

My eyes were always glued to the girls with a passion for fashion. To me, Bratz dolls were edgy, fashionable, and were undeniably confident. They had this radiance to them— a glow that screamed, “I love who I am!” 

Self-Love Starts With Positive Thinking

Self-love is the foundation of a healthy relationship with yourself. It is key to glowing from the inside out. Therefore, treating yourself with kindness and compassion is essential to bringing out the best in you.

woman looks into a mirror with a smile
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Think back to choosing a doll in your youth. More than likely, the box listed all the positive traits of the doll. I ask you this, what if we did the same for ourselves? What if we took the time to acknowledge all the things we appreciate about ourselves?

Limiting negative self-talk and replacing it with uplifting phrases is crucial when embarking on a self-love journey. Instead of picking yourself apart, say something nice to yourself. Your goal should be to accept yourself fully and recognize your true worth.

As we embrace this season of love, remember to shower yourself with the same affection. Below, read my suggestions for showing yourself some extra TLC this month.

✨Uplift Yourself With Positive Affirmations

Positive affirmations are phrases used to replace negative thoughts with positive ones. They can help you feel better about yourself and build your self-esteem. A simple way to start using positive affirmations is by using the Self-Love Notes. Write down reasons why you adore who you are and replace those unhelpful statements with some encouraging ones. 

Self-Love Notes | Living on the Butter Side Lifestyle
Photo courtesy of Living on the Butter Side Lifestyle

Create A Playlist That Boosts Your Mood

Most popular dolls have a catchy theme song that’s powerful enough to express the character’s mood. I challenge you to create a mood-boosting playlist that does the same for you. 

Curate the perfect playlist that makes you feel like “that girl.” Find songs that give your mind something encouraging to focus on, something to smile about, or something to dance to. Lean into this playlist when you feel triggered, disappointed, or melancholy. 

When you are feeling down, boost your spirit by playing your favorite motivational, inspiring, and feel-good tunes. Remember, you are in control of how you feel. Yes, you are going to have moments of disappointment, but don’t stay stuck in it.

✨Build A Tribe That Makes You Feel Good

Take a look at any popular doll on the market, and guarantee they have a group of friends! While having a tribe of people to lean on is important, it is equally important to set boundaries— even for those who are super close to us. 

How do you feel after interactions with people close to you? Do you feel drained or uplifted? Do you leave with a smile or leave questioning why you even entertained that conversation? Pay attention to these feelings. Pay attention to the shift in energy. 

Create Healthy Boundaries 

It’s natural to want to be there for a friend, but it’s important to remember that consistently listening to someone process traumatic experiences can be emotionally draining. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or burdened by a friend’s frequent sharing of traumatic events, it’s crucial to set healthy boundaries.

Remember, self-love involves nurturing your emotional well-being, which includes protecting your peace (and energy). 

Editor’s Note: This story has been edited and condensed for clarity. 

Tiombe Huggins is a self-care and wellness enthusiast. She shares the importance of self-care with her own brand of self-care stationery products, along with sharing wellness and small business inspiration with her audience as a content creator. When she isn’t running her business, you can catch her teaching Pure Barre classes in NYC.