What do you think of when you hear the terms ‘Self-Love’ and ‘Self-Care’?
Not that these terms are interchangeable, though I think we have come to hear them in that way.
To truly love ourselves (fully and without judgment) is not something we are taught to do. I recall thinking that I loved myself, not realizing that it was ‘conditional’ – as long as my body looked a certain way, that I behaved perfectly in every role I played, and as long as no one in my immediate circle of family and friends had anything negative to say (people-please much?).
Loving myself ‘unconditionally’ means I love myself even (and especially) when I’m not performing like I think I ‘should’, or when I choose to do something even though intellectually I know it’s not the best choice for me. As the saying goes, “The key is loving ourselves, warts and all.”
Now, caring for myself – having my hair done, scheduling a pedicure, or a monthly massage – these are essentials. They are not something I decide to do because I ‘deserve’ it. Like taking my car in for maintenance, having my teeth cleaned periodically, or having my eyes checked – looking after myself is a MUST. Taking care of me has a profound effect on my success, survival, and well-being, therefore, I NEVER cancel on myself.
Truly loving myself is honoring my precious time and energy. I choose the relationships and adventures that are most nourishing to me. Tending to my SOUL – by actually listening – is what is most important of all.
